Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

CVS PHARMACY: Rx Drug Price Overhaul

Posted on December 8, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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CVS is overhauling how it prices prescription drugs

In a recent announcement, the company CVS promised that its new model would be more transparent than the current setup, which prices drugs based on complex reimbursement formulas that can make the costs of prescriptions confusing for consumers.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource/Title/082610254

The new model, called CVS CostVantage, is based on a simple equation: Drugs will cost what CVS paid for them, plus a limited markup and a flat fee to cover the services of fulfilling the prescriptions. That’s similar to a plan proposed by billionaire Mark Cuban, founder of Cost Plus Drugs, to bring accountability to drug pricing in the US.

MORE: https://medicalexecutivepost.com/2022/06/23/mark-cubans-cost-plus-drugs-com/

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GEMINI: Google’s Large Language Model Released

Posted on December 7, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

LLM

By Staff Reporters

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Gemini: Google's Latest AI Challenging GPT-4 - YouTube

About a year after OpenAI’s launch of ChatGPT brought the simmering artificial intelligence race to a boil, Google’s highly anticipated AI model, Gemini, has finally joined the competition. Released yesterday, Gemini is a large language model (LLM) that Google CEO Sundar Pichai and executives at the company’s DeepMind AI division say will revolutionize generative technology for business and daily life.

The tech is a family of three models that Google is slowly looping into its suite of services:

Gemini Nano is mainly for mobile devices. As of yesterday, Google Pixel 8 Pro owners could enlist Gemini Nano to summarize audio recordings or draft automatic message replies.
Gemini Pro is a midsize offering designed for more complex tasks. Pro now powers Google’s chatbot, Bard, but the AI tech isn’t available to Google Cloud customers until Dec. 13.
Gemini Ultra, the powerhouse version geared toward data centers and large companies, will launch next year and underpin “Bard Advanced,” a new chatbot that will be able to simultaneously process text, images, audio, and video, according to Google’s prerecorded demonstrations.

If Gemini can do what Google promises, it could chip away at OpenAI’s lead in the LLM space.

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Filed under: Breaking News, Career Development, Experts Invited, Glossary Terms, Information Technology | Tagged: AI, artificial intelligence, ChatGPT, DeepMind, Gemini, google, large language model, LLM, openAI, Pichai, Sundar | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: Apple Market Cap Up as Major Stock Indexes Ease

Posted on December 7, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

MEDICARE ANNUAL ENROLLMENT ENDS

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Apple regains a $3 trillion market cap and is on track to end the year as the world’s most valuable company for the 5th time in a row.

Today marks the 82nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor that drew the US into WWII.

Here’s where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500^® index (SPX) was down 17.84 points (0.4%) at 4,549.34; the Dow Jones Industrial Average^® (DJI) was down 70.13 points (0.2%) at 36,054.43; the NASDAQ Composite^® (COMP) was down 83.20 points (0.6%) at 14,146.71.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 5 basis points at 4.117%.
The CBOE^® Volatility Index (VIX) was up 0.10 at 12.95.

Energy shares were again among the market’s weakest performers as crude oil futures extended a slump, closing below $70 per barrel for the first time since late June on concerns over slowing global demand. And, Liz Ann Sonders of Schwab said a “somewhat stealthy” rotation continued under the market’s surface, with the S&P 500® Equal Weight (SPXEW) and Russell 2000^®(RUT) indexes outperforming both the S&P 500 and NASDAQ over the past month or so. She also noted a defensive tone to Wednesday’ trading, illustrated by strength in utilities and weakness in technology.

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CAPITAL REQUIREMENT BANK RISKS: Basel III Endgame?

Posted on December 6, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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The heads of Wall Street’s eight biggest banks will warn lawmakers today that the “Basel III Endgame” proposal will hurt the economy and hamper lending, according to each of their prepared testimonies. Regulators in July proposed strengthening regulations by requiring large U.S. banks to set aside more capital to absorb potential losses. Banks repeatedly slammed the proposal, saying this is not justified as they are well-capitalized.

The CEOs of the top banks will appear before the Senate Banking Committee today to make their case – Wells Fargo’s (NYSE:WFC) Charles Scharf, Bank of America’s (NYSE:BAC) Brian Thomas Moynihan, JPMorgan’s (NYSE:JPM) Jamie Dimon, Citigroup’s (NYSE:C) Jane Fraser, State Street’s (NYSE:STT) Ronald O’Hanley, BNY Mellon’s (NYSE:BK) Robin Vince, Goldman Sachs’ (NYSE:GS) David Solomon, and Morgan Stanley’s (NYSE:MS) James Gorman.

“The proposed Basel III Endgame rule would unjustifiably and unnecessarily increase capital requirements by 20%-25% for the largest banks,” according to Jamie Dimon’s prepared testimony. “Banks would be limited in their ability to deploy capital in the times we’re most needed, and the rule will have a harmful ripple effect on the economy.”

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DAILY UPDATE: Non-Physician Practice Ownership Quality Down as Stock Markets Slip

Posted on December 6, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Nearly 60% of doctors who practice as employees of hospitals and other corporate entities say that non-physician practice ownership results in lower quality patient care, per a new survey commissioned by the Physicians Advocacy Institute. Loss of face time with patients and greater focus on finances negatively impact quality, they say.

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

Here’s where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 index was down 2.60 points (0.1%) at 4,567.18; the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 79.88 points (0.2%) at 36,124.56; the NASDAQ Composite® (COMP) was up 44.42 points (0.3%) at 14,229.91.
The 10-year Treasury note yield was down about 11 basis points at 4.18%.
The CBOE® Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.23 at 12.85.

Energy shares were among Tuesday’s weakest performers on pressure from slumping crude oil futures, which dropped for a fourth consecutive day and hit a five-month low amid concern over global demand. Retail and transportation sectors were also soft. Technology and consumer discretionary shares were among the few gainers.

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VALUATION OF MSOs: Introduction and Competitive Environment

Posted on December 6, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

MANAGEMENT SERVICE ORGANIZATION

By Health Capital Consultants, LLC

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Valuation of MSOs: Introduction & Competitive Environment

DEFINITION: A management services organization is an outside entity that can help with the non-medical parts of running a medical practice, out-patient facility or clinic; etc.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource/Title/082610254

Management service organizations (MSOs) can be defined as “a healthcare specific administrative and management engine that provides a host of administrative and management functions necessary to be successful in the ever changing healthcare environment.” MSOs are primarily utilized by non-physicians as a vehicle to legally owning an entity that provides administrative support to a medical practice’s operations.

Most states only allow medical practices to be owned by physicians, which can limit the number of investors in a medical practice, as well as the financial value of the practice. (Read more…)

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INCOME: It Depends on the Meaning of the Word?

Posted on December 5, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Incomes Keep Rising| Concrete Construction Magazine

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DEFINITION: Income is the money you receive in exchange for your labor or products. Income may have different definitions depending on the context—for example, taxation, financial accounting, or economic analysis. For most people, income is their total earnings in the form of wages and salaries, the return on their investments, pension distributions, and other receipts. For businesses, income is the revenue from selling services, products, and any interest and dividends received with respect to their cash accounts and reserves related to the business. Economists have different definitions of income and different ways of measuring it, from focusing on earnings, savings, consumption, production, public finance, capital investment or other topics … Maybe?

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WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The U.S. Supreme Court is set on Tuesday to consider a challenge to the legality of a tax targeting owners of foreign corporations that could undermine efforts at imposing a wealth tax on the very rich in a case that has already sparked controversy over a call for Justice Samuel Alito to recuse.

The justices are due to hear arguments in an appeal by Charles and Kathleen Moore – a retired couple from Redmond, Washington couple – of a lower court’s decision rejecting their challenge to the tax on foreign company earnings, even though those profits had not been distributed.

The one-time “mandatory repatriation tax” (MRT), which applied to taxpayers owning at least 10% of certain foreign corporations, was part of a 2017 Republican-backed tax bill signed into law by former President Donald Trump.

At issue in the case is whether this levy on unrealized gains is allowed under the U.S. Constitution’s 16th Amendment, which enabled Congress to “collect taxes on incomes.” The Moores, backed by the Competitive Enterprise Institute and other conservative and business groups, contend that “income” means only those gains that are realized through payment to the taxpayer, not a mere increase in the value of property.

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DAILY UPDATE: Stock Indexes Pull Back

Posted on December 5, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

Here is where the major benchmarks ended yesterday:

The S&P 500® index (SPX) was down 24.85 points (0.5%) at 4,569.78; the Dow Jones Industrial Average® (DJI) was down 41.06 points (0.1%) at 36,204.44; the NASDAQ Composite (COMP) was down 119.54 points (0.8%) at 14,185.49.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was up about 4 basis points at 4.264%.
The BOE® Volatility Index (VIX) was up 0.45 points at 13.08.

Technology and communications services shares were among the weakest performers Monday, with the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX) dropping 1.2%, its lowest level since mid-November.

By contrast, many smaller companies held up better. The small-cap-focused Russell 2000® Index (RUT) rose 1% and ended at a three-month high, extending a recent upswing. In other markets, gold futures (GC) plunged after earlier posting an intraday record above $2,152 an ounce.

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PODCAST: “Open Enrollment” Best Practices

Posted on December 5, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Eric Bricker MD

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SCOTUS: “Quadrillion-Dollar” IRS Tax Code Question?

Posted on December 4, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

SPONSOR: http://www.CertifiedMedicalPlanner.org

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SCOTUS will hear the “quadrillion-dollar” question?

Kicking off the Supreme Court this week will hear oral arguments today for a case that could upend the US tax code.

In Moore v. United States, the justices will be asked to decide whether the federal government can tax certain “unrealized gains”—assets that have yet to be sold.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource/Title/082610254

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DAILY UPDATE: IRS Ups Interest Rate Penalty with Economic Soft Landing?

Posted on December 4, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is raising the stakes for those who underpay their taxes by ratcheting up the interest penalty that will be assessed in next spring’s tax filing season. Earlier this fall, the IRS increased its interest penalty on estimated tax underpayments to 8% – a notable jump from 3% just two years ago. The IRS indicated that the interest rate penalty is determined every quarter and that for taxpayers other than corporations the assessed rate is the federal short-term rate plus three percentage points.

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Speaking of a possible US economic “soft-landing“, the S&P 500 closed at a 2023 high on Friday, the VIX (Wall Street’s “fear gauge”) has fallen to a nearly four-year low, and December has been the third-best month for the S&P since 1928. Even crypto is on a roll as bitcoin topped $40,000 for the first time since May 2022.

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ALERT: Remote Patient Monitoring

Posted on December 4, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

RPM CONSUMER ALERT

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General is alerting the public about a fraud scheme involving monthly billing for remote patient monitoring. This scam involves signing up Medicare enrollees for remote patient monitoring (RPM). Legitimate RPM involves using medical devices such as scales, glucose monitors, blood pressure cuffs, cardiac rhythm devices, and other equipment to remotely monitor for anomalies in patients with chronic medical conditions. This new treatment is beneficial for those whose condition might deteriorate quickly, where monitoring can reduce complications, hospitalizations, or death.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource/Title/082610254

Unscrupulous companies are signing up Medicare enrollees for this service, regardless of medical necessity. Scammers have several ways to make contact. It may involve phone solicitations (“cold calling”), internet ads (“click bait”), or television advertising. These contacts may originate from a Durable Medical Equipment Company (DME) or pharmacy. Equipment may or may not be sent or is equipment that is not FDA-approved.

HIT: https://www.amazon.com/Dictionary-Health-Information-Technology-Security/dp/0826149952/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1254413315&sr=1-5

Billing then occurs for set-up, patient teaching, and monthly monitoring of data. Most often, the monthly monitoring never happens, but the enrollee is billed monthly anyway.

Source: OIG

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JEROME POWELL: Speaks On “Premature” Interest Rate Cuts

Posted on December 3, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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What Is Money Factor for SMB? : On Auto Monthly Lease Payment

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With the Fed’s aggressive rate hikes to curb inflation looking like they’ve finally come to an end thanks to encouraging data on prices falling, investors are starting to look forward to when the central bankers start slashing rates again.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource/Title/082610254

But Jerome Powell sought to pour some cold water on the rate cut hype cycle during a speech at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia yesterday, saying that it was too soon “to speculate on when policy might ease.” However, investors still think he’ll come around: Markets are putting the odds that the Fed will cut rates in March above 50% and are totally convinced it’ll happen by May, according to Bloomberg.

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DAILY UPDATE: Stock Markets Rally and IPOs

Posted on December 3, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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As we reported, the S&P 500 had its best day of the year on Friday as stocks kept their November rally rolling right into December. Pfizer, however, fell to its lowest since March 2020 after announcing that it’s pulling the plug on its experimental twice-a-day weight loss pill because it caused too many negative side effects even as pharmaceutical companies are rushing to serve the growing weight loss market.

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And, Panera Bread filed IPO paperwork, the Financial Times reported. And it’s not the only household name that’s anticipated to hit brokerage apps next year as more companies are once again considering going public. The past two years have been an IPO stale mate as rising interest rates led to a tepid market for newcomers. Last year, Panera itself aborted a public listing it was planning via a special purpose acquisition company [SPAC] due to harsh market conditions.

CITE: https://medicalexecutivepost.com/2022/06/13/spac-v-direct-listing-v-ipo/

But, things might be different in 2024. Fast-fashion behemoth Shein also recently filed paperwork for what could be a blockbuster IPO that raises as much as $90 billion, per Bloomberg. The publication says that more companies are rumored to be thinking about joining the potential IPO bonanza. For example:

Kim Kardashian might list her $4 billion undergarment brand, Skims.
Reddit is supposedly flirting with the idea of going public. It would be the first major social media IPO in years, and it’s been in the offing since last year, when Reddit was valued at $15 billion.

However, all IPOs have not done well:

The Birkenstock and Instacart IPOs fell short of expectations according to investment data from Dealogic
Three out of four companies that IPOed this year were trading below their offer prices as of the middle of last month.
Companies debuting on the public markets raised a meager $20 billion so far this year, a slight rebound from 2022 but a ~90% decline from 2021.

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MEDICARE [dis] ADVANTAGE Plans?

Posted on December 3, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Leading hospital trade groups are accusing some Medicare Advantage plans, including giant UnitedHealthcare, of flaunting coverage requirements recently codified by CMS. The American Hospital Association is now petitioning the Biden administration to crack down.

However … the Medicare Advantage market is booming but investment in cancer care continues to lag.

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DAILY UPDATE: Sidelines Awash with Cash in Up Markets

Posted on December 2, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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There’s almost $6 trillion of cash sitting on the sidelines in money-market funds, with the potential for some portion of it to be reallocated into “carefully selected risk assets.”

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This is according to Ali Dibadj, chief executive of London-based Janus Henderson Investors, which had $308.3 billion in assets under management as of September. About $187.9 billion, or 61%, of that was in equity strategies.

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Here’s where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 index was up 26.83 points (0.6%) at 4,594.63, up 0.8% for the week; the Dow Jones Industrial Average® (DJI) was up 294.61 points (0.8%) at 36,245.50, up 2.4% for the week; the NASDAQ Composite was up 78.81 points (0.6%) at 14,305.03, up 0.4% for the week.
The 10-year Treasury note yield was down about 14 basis points at 4.213%.
The CBOE® Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.27 at 12.65.

Friday’s gains followed the market’s strongest month of the year, as the S&P 500 and NASDAQ surged 8.9% and 10.7% in November, respectively, their best monthly performances since July 2022. Among sectors, the KBW Regional Bank Index (KRX) jumped 5.3% Friday, and retail shares were also among the top gainers.

Shares of smaller companies extended a recent rally as the small-cap-focused Russell 2000® Index (RUT) gained 3.1% for the week and ended at a 2-1/2-month high.

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MPFS Final Rule Cuts Physician Payments

Posted on December 2, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

Medicare Physician Fee Schedule

By Health Capital Consultants

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DEFINITION: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) uses the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) to reimburse physician services. The MPFS is funded by Part B and is composed of resource costs associated with physician work, practice expense and professional liability insurance.

Under the MPFS, each of these three elements is assigned a Relative Value Unit (RVU) for each Current Procedural Terminology (CPT^®) code. These RVUs are then adjusted based on the Geographical Practice Cost Index associated with various geographic areas for different medical costs and wage differentials. The conversion factor is the national dollar amount that is multiplied by the total geographically adjusted RVU to determine the Medicare-allowed payment amount for a particular physician service.

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MPFS Final Rule Cuts Physician Payments

On November 2nd, 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released its finalized Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) for calendar year (CY) 2024. While the finalized fee schedule cuts payments to physicians, there are a number of other (more positive) provisions in the final rule.

This Health Capital Topics article explores the various changes and updates included in the MPFS final rule. (Read more…)

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HEALTHCARE Innovation and Practice Management on the Move

Posted on December 1, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Online therapy company Talkspace will provide free virtual mental health services to more than 400,000 adolescents and teens in New York City after inking a deal with the city. The new program, dubbed TeenSpace, will connect teens to a licensed therapist through phone, video and text.

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The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) has announced funding awards of $80.5 million to support four new studies focused on disparities in maternal health. They will take into account clinical and social factors that contribute to inequities and will compare interventions in various settings.

And … Ayble Health, a digital health platform for patients with chronic gastrointestinal conditions, is working with the Mayo Clinic Complex Care Program to offer a hybrid care model that matches patients with the appropriate virtual and in-person care based on acuity and need.

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INFLATION: Cools Down!

Posted on December 1, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Inflation continues to cool

The Fed’s preferred inflation measure increased 3% in October, down from 3.4% in September and getting closer to the central bank’s much-ballyhooed target of 2%. A drop in gas prices—down 4.9% from the previous month—was a major factor. Increases in core prices, which strip out food and energy costs, also slowed last month. In the last six months, core inflation has grown at a 2.5% annual rate—down significantly from 5.1% last year.

The news means the Fed will likely keep interest rates unchanged at its final 2023 meeting on December 12t and 13th.

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DAILY UPDATE: DJIA Rockets Upward!

Posted on December 1, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 index was up 17.22 points (0.4%) at 4,567.80, up 8.9% for the month; the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 520.47 points (1.5%) at 35,950.89, up 8.8% for the month; the NASDAQ Composite was down 32.27 points (0.2%) at 14,226.22, up 10.7% for the month.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was up about 6 basis points at 4.33%.
CBOE® Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.07 at 12.91.

The Dow’s gain Thursday was driven in part by Salesforce (CRM), which soared nearly 9% after the cloud software company reported stronger-than-expected quarterly results. The technology sector was otherwise soft, with the NASDAQ-100® (NDX) down 0.7% but still up 10.7% for the month. Small-cap stocks also posted a firm November, illustrated by a monthly gain of nearly 9% in the Russell 2000® Index (RUT).

And, Nathan Peterson, director of derivatives analysis at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, said the weakness in tech shares likely reflected consolidation after firm gains earlier this month. The NASDAQ Composite may also face some technical resistance around 14,350, a level where sellers stepped in back in July.

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CONSUMER CONFIDENCE: Up!

Posted on November 30, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Consumer confidence rose for the first time in four months

The Consumer Conference Board’s index rose from 99.1 in October to 102 in November thanks to US consumers’ optimism around short-term income, hiring prospects, and the slowdown in inflation. The perceived likelihood of a recession also fell to the lowest level of 2023—though two-thirds of Americans still think one is either “somewhat” or “very likely” to happen in the next year.

The improved economic outlook comes after home prices rose to a new record in September, even as mortgage rates remained elevated.

***

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DAILY UPDATE: Hospital Ransomware Attack as Stock Markets Mixed Ahead of Inflation Reading

Posted on November 30, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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A ransomware attack has caused a health care chain, which operates 30 hospitals in six states, to move patients from some of its emergency rooms to other hospitals, while putting certain procedures on pause, the company announced.

According to a statement from Ardent Health Services, the attack happened on November 23rd. The company said as a result of the attack, it took its network offline and suspended user access to its information technology applications, including the software used to document patient care.

***

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

Here’s where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500^® index was down 4.31 points (0.1%) at 4,550.58; the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 13.44 points at 35,430.42; the NASDAQ Composite^® was down 23.27 points (0.2%) at 14,258.49.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 8 basis points at 4.261%.
CBOE^® Volatility Index (VIX) was up 0.29 at 12.98.

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“BREAKING NEWS” Cigna and Humana to Merge?

Posted on November 30, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Cigna and Humana are in talks for a combination that would create a new powerhouse in the health-insurance industry. The companies are discussing a stock-and-cash deal that could be finalized by the end of the year, assuming the talks don’t fall apart.

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A combination of the managed-care providers would be huge, given Cigna’s market value Wednesday morning of about $83 billion and Humana’s of roughly $62 billion.

***

Cigna and Humana previously explored merging in 2015, but Humana instead struck a deal with another rival, Aetna, that was blocked by a judge on antitrust grounds, leaving Aetna to be scooped up by CVS in 2018. Another deal that would have combined Cigna with Anthem, now known as Elevance Health, also died after an adverse antitrust ruling.

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Editor’s Note: Medicare Advantage plans are pretty popular with both lawmakers and ordinary Americans — they now enroll about 31 million people, representing just over half of everyone in Medicare, by KFF’s count. Across the country, doctors are grumbling about claim denials and onerous pre-approval requirements by Medicare Advantage plans. Some hospitals and physician practices are so fed up they’re refusing to accept the plans — even big ones like those offered by United Healthcare, Cigna and Humana.

“The insurance companies running the Medicare Advantage plans are pushing physicians and hospitals to the edge,” said Chip Kahn, president and CEO of the Federation of American Hospitals, which represents the for-profit hospital sector.

And, just last week, the industry’s largest lobbying group, the American Hospital Association, fired off a letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services warning that some insurers seem intent on circumventing new rules put in place by the Biden administration aimed at reining in some prior authorization and claim denials.

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GM ALERT: Buy-Back as Stock Rises

Posted on November 29, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

SPONSOR: http://www.CERTIFIEDMEDICALPLANNER.org

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General Motors plans to sharply increase cash return to shareholders, as Chief Executive Mary Barra seeks to reassure investors about the health of GM’s core car-making business after setbacks in fledgling pursuits such as electric and driver-less vehicles.

The company just announced it will work to offset higher labor expenses from its new contract with the United Auto Workers and unionized employees in Canada. The contracts will add a total of $9.3 billion in costs over about four years, including $1.5 billion next year, higher than analysts had estimated.

Barra is trying to jump-start GM’s flailing shares while also refocusing investors on the underlying strength of its main business: selling gas- and diesel-powered trucks and SUVs. It marks a shift in the message from recent years, during which the CEO sought to recast GM as a tech company poised to transcend the messy world of car manufacturing.

GM said it would log strong profits this year despite a six-week strike that shaved $1.1 billion from its bottom line in the third and fourth quarters. The company expects full-year operating profit of $11.7 billion to $12.7 billion, after withdrawing its guidance last month during the strike

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MARCINKO & Associates, Inc.

Posted on November 29, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

WHAT WE DO AND HOW WE ASSIST MEDICAL COLLEAGUES

Hard Business Advice AND Personal Lifestyle Coaching

http://www.MARCINKOASSOCIATES.com

By Ann Miller RN MHA CMP™

At Marcinko & Associates our clients traditionally include physicians [MD, MBBS and DO], dentists [DDS and DMD], podiatrists [DPM], Registered Nurses [RNs], Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists [CRNA], Physician Assistants [PA] and Nurse Practitioners [NP]. A growing cohort of clients include medical technologists, physical, speech and occupational therapists, etc.

The above are naturally segregated into three career tranches: 1. New practitioners, 2] Mid-Career practitioners and 3] Mature practitioners. We serve them all and are fully prepared for any special needs situation that may arise in any tranche [death, divorce, adverse risk event and/or bankruptcy, etc].

Marcinko & Associates understands the complexity of financial and non-financial deal terms because we are also doctors. Our “hard” knowledge of your business comes from being actual healthcare facility owners, operators and medical practitioners [with additional professional licenses and expertise] enabling us to effectively analyze your business, take corrective measures and present your healthcare entity in the best possible and accurate light.

***

But, if you’re looking at this website, chances are you are fed up, burned out, seeking practice management techniques or a better work-life balance. Or, you are looking for a new non-clinical career, thinking of finance, investing, retirement, or all of the above. Perhaps you are just looking to regain the joy and meaning in your medical or professional career? This is known as “soft” psychology, coaching, personal consulting or fraternal advice.

***

Regardless, of your “soft” personal or “hard” corporate needs, our transparent Fees for Service [FFS] model is moderated for all colleagues based on the acuity and urgency of their engagements. Reduced rates and/or limited charity work may also be possible.

***

http://www.DavidEdwardMarcinko.com

CONTACT US TODAY – THRIVE TOMORROW!

Suite #5901 Wilbanks Drive

Norcross, Georgia USA 30092-1141

email: MarcinkoAdvisors@msn.com

***

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DAILY UPDATE: Apple Credit Card, Drug Prices and the Modest Stock Markets

Posted on November 29, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Apple is pulling the plug on its credit card partnership with Goldman Sachs Group, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday. The tech giant recently sent a proposal to the Wall Street bank to exit the contract in the next 12 to 15 months, the report said, citing people briefed on the matter.

***

Senators Elizabeth Warren (Democrat) and Mike Braun (Republican) sent a letter to the US Department of Health and Human Services last week, asking it to investigate whether large insurance companies are hiking prescription drug prices at pharmacies they own

***

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

Here’s where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500® index (SPX) was up 4.46 points (0.1%) at 4,554.89; the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 83.51 points (0.2%) at 35,416.98; the NASDAQ Composite® (COMP) was up 40.73 points (0.3%) at 14,281.76.
The 10-year Treasury yield was down about 6 basis points at 4.33%.
The CBOE® Volatility Index (VIX) was little-changed at 12.69.

Semiconductor and transportation shares were among the weakest performers Tuesday, and regional banks were also under pressure. Small cap stocks also lagged. The Russell 2000® Index (RUT) fell about 0.4% for its lowest close in a week.

Retailers and utilities were among the firmest sectors. In other markets, the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) weakened to its lowest level since mid-August, reflecting expectations that U.S. interest rates have peaked.

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RIP: Charlie Munger of Berkshire Hathaway

Posted on November 29, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

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PRESS RELEASE:

Charlie Munger, a champion of common-sense investing who forever altered the finance world as the top adviser and dry-witted sidekick to Warren Buffett, the most successful financier in history, died Nov. 28 at a hospital in California. He was 99.

His death was announced by Berkshire Hathaway, the Omaha-based investment company he helped lead with Buffett. The firm did not give a cause or say exactly where he died.

BH: https://berkshirehathaway.com/2022ar/2022ar.pdf

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GIVING TUESDAY: Radical Generosity

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

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By Staff Reporters

Giving uesday is a Movement that Unleashes the Power of Radical Generosity Around the World

Giving Tuesday re-imagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.

***

A global network collaborates year-round to inspire generosity around the world, with a common mission to build a world where generosity is part of everyday life.

Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give.

MORE: https://www.givingtuesday.org/about/

PRO BONO: https://medicalexecutivepost.com/2022/11/29/giving-tuesday-and-pro-bono-medical-care/

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DAILY UPDATE: Interest Rate Cuts, CPA Holidays Spending Watch and the Markets

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Wall Street is gearing up for rate cuts. Yep! Twenty months after the Federal Reserve began a historic campaign against inflation, investors now believe there is a much greater chance that the central bank will cut rates in just four months than raise them again in the foreseeable future.

Interest-rate futures indicated last week a roughly 60% chance the Fed will lower rates by a quarter-of-a-percentage point by its May 2024 policy meeting, up from 29% at the end of October, according to CME Group data. The same data has pointed to four cuts by the end of the year. And, investors, battered by the Fed’s efforts to slow the economy, have reacted by driving the S&P 500 up nearly 9% this month. That is despite the wagers reflecting different possible paths for the economy, not all of them favorable for stocks.

Of course, investors look ahead to the release this week of key US inflation data that could provide a guide for the Federal Reserve’s plans for interest rates going into the new year.

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***

Read: Can AI save accounting? (the Journal of Accountancy)

***

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 Index was down 8.91 points (0.2%) at 4,550.43; theDow Jones Industrial Average^® (DJI) was down 56.68 points (0.2%) at 35,333.47; the NASDAQ Composite^® was down 9.83 points (0.1%) at 14,241.02.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 10 basis points at 4.387%.
CBOE Volatility Index^® (VIX) was up 0.23 at 12.69.

Transportation shares were among the weakest performers Monday, and energy was also soft behind a drop in crude oil futures. Weakness in many retail stocks suggested some concern over consumer spending given high interest rates and slower job growth. The S&P Retail Select Index (SPSIRE) fell 0.6% but is still up 8.2% for the month. Consumer discretionary and real estate shares were among the few gainers.

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CYBER MONDAY, et al.

Posted on November 27, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Many wanted to discount Black Friday this year, but discounts only made it stronger. Despite analysts’ tepid outlook, the shopping holiday generated a record $9.8 billion in online sales in the US, a 7.5% increase over a year ago, according to Adobe Analytics

Here is where the major benchmarks ended the month:

The S&P 500 has had a sensational month—up nearly 8.7%. It’s one of the best Novembers on record. Since 1928, the S&P has gained more than 8% in November fewer than 10 times, per Bloomberg.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource

And, don’t expect things to slow today—Adobe predicts a record $12 billion in sales on Cyber Monday, a 5.4% increase over last year and the biggest online shopping day in US history. Retailers are set to cut prices by 30% on electronics, one of the biggest sales drivers over the past week.

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SHOP: Small Business Saturday

Posted on November 25, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

***

Today, Saturday November 25th, 2023 is Small Business Saturday – a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for their communities. This year, we know that small businesses need our support now more than ever as they navigate, retool and pivot from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Please join the U.S. Small Business Administration and related organizations across the country in supporting your local small businesses by shopping at a small business.

Founded by American Express in 2010 and officially cosponsored by SBA since 2011, Small Business Saturday has become an important part of small businesses’ busiest shopping season. Historically, reported projected spending among U.S. consumers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday reached an estimated $17.9 billion according to the 2022 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey

And, the highly successful team of SBA, Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), and American Express will be kicking off the 2023 holiday season by encouraging consumers to support our nation’s nearly 32 million independent businesses this Small Business Saturday and all holiday season long.

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DAILY UPDATE: Holiday Spending Economics with Mixed Stock Markets

Posted on November 25, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Shopping data reveals that Q4 isn’t as important as one might expect. For example, the holiday quarter in 2022 accounted for 26.8% of the year’s sales, just a hair over the 25% mark if sales were evenly spread across the year, per the US Census Bureau. Of course, some types of retailers depend on the holiday quarter far more than others. Discretionary retailers (which sell the things you want, but don’t need…aka gifts) rely on Q4 for up to 40% of their yearly sales, according to McKinsey. For department stores, clothing stores, and toy stores, the holiday season really is make-or-break. GameStop, for instance, recorded 37% of its annual revenue last year in the last three months of 2022.

But for other retailers, Q4 isn’t such a big deal. People apparently read throughout the year because book stores only depend on the fourth quarter for 27.4% of sales. People also need to eat food all year long: Q4 accounted for 26.3% of sales for grocery stores.

Meanwhile, gas stations, car dealerships, and building material companies perform worse in the holiday quarter than at other times of the year.

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

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The S&P 500 Index was 2.72 up points (0.1%) at 4,559.34, up 1% for the week; the Dow Jones Industrial Average^®(DJI) was up 117.12 points (0.3%) at 35,390.15, up 1.3% for the week; the NASDAQ Composite was down 15.00 points (0.1%) at 14,250.85, up 0.9% for the week.

The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was up about 5 basis points at 4.47%.
CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.34 at 12.46.

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NURSING: Emerging Trends and Innovation

Posted on November 25, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

Wayne Gregory talks about Emerging Trends and Innovations to Watch in Nursing | Greenville, South Carolina

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MORTGAGE RATES: Elevated on Black Friday!

Posted on November 24, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Elevated mortgage rates are set to keep sellers of previously owned homes out of the market heading into next year, but sales will “bottom out” in early 2024, Fannie Mae said this week, before a rebound the following year.

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Mortgage rates hovered near 8 percent as recently as October, the highest level it has hit since the turn of the millennium, which has scared used homeowners from selling their homes as many prefer to stay in lower rates secured in years past. This “lock in effect,” as Fannie Mae analysts describe it, has added to a depleted supply of homes available for buyers and helped push up prices.

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DAILY UPDATE: Thanksgiving Travel Gas Prices Down – Narrow Traffic Lanes Safer – Walgreens Pharmacies Closed as the Stock Markets Roar

Posted on November 23, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

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Thanksgiving is a trading holiday. Both the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq are closed. Black Friday, one of the biggest shopping days of the year, is a half day for the stock market. Both stock exchanges close at 1:00 p.m. ET, with eligible options trading until 1:15 p.m. Normal trading hours resume on the Monday after Thanksgiving, also known as Cyber Monday, when many online retailers host major sales.

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Thanks to plummeting prices at the pump, US drivers will save a collective $1.2 billion this Thanksgiving travel period, and day, compared to last year, according to GasBuddy. The average price per gallon is down nearly 46 cents from a year ago, and more than 50,000 stations now show gas prices at $2.99/gallon or less.

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Narrow traffic lanes are safer than wide ones. Researchers at Johns Hopkins analyzed more than 1,000 streets in seven major cities across the US and found that narrower roads mitigated traffic collisions in certain conditions. The study did not find a significant difference between roads 9-feet wide and those 10- or 11-feet wide, but it did conclude that traffic accidents increase 1.5x when a road widens from 9 feet to 12 feet. Traffic fatalities are the leading cause of death for Americans aged 1–54.

***

Walgreens will close most of its pharmacies and stores on Thanksgiving Day for the first time in the company’s history, executives said last Thursday. The move to close more than 8,700 stores for the federal holiday comes as some Walgreens workers staged a three-day walkout this fall to push for improved working conditions and increased staffing numbers, Reuters reported.

***

Here is where the major benchmarks ended on Wednesday:

The S&P 500 Index was up 18.43 points (0.4%) at 4,556.62, near a four-month high close; the Dow Jones Industrial Average^®(DJI) was up 184.74 points (0.5%) at 35,273.03; the NASDAQ Composite was up 65.88 points (0.5%) at 14,265.86.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 1 basis point at 4.41%, after earlier dropping to a two-month low under 4.37%.
CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.50 at 12.85.

Communications services and technology were among the strongest performers Wednesday. Food and beverage companies were also firm. Energy shares were among the weakest performers Wednesday behind a drop of over 1% in WTI Crude Oil futures (/CL). ), which fell following reports OPEC delayed a weekend meeting until November 30th, a possible reflection of cartel members struggling to reach consensus over production cuts. WTI crude ended just under $77 a barrel, down 19% from a 2023 high above $95 in late October.

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NVIDIA UPDATE: Smashes Revenue Expectations!

Posted on November 22, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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The good times keep rolling for the chip maker. Q3 revenue increased 206% year over year to $18.1 million, topping Wall Street’s estimates of about $16.2 billion. The company’s stock has more than tripled amid the AI boom this year, accounting for a big part of the S&P 500’s tech-fueled rise.

And yet, shares ticked down from record highs in after-hours trading on Tuesday after Nvidia tempered expectations for Q4 due to new restrictions on chip exports to China.

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DAILY UPDATE: Nvidia Up, Zhao of Binance is Out and the Stock Index Win Streak Ends

Posted on November 22, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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How to Close Binance Account - Cryptalker

SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Nvidia reported another quarter of record sales and gave a strong revenue outlook, pointing to red-hot demand for chips that underpin the artificial-intelligence boom. Huge investments in AI by tech giants from Microsoft to Amazon.com and by other large corporations have helped propel Nvidia’s sales to unprecedented levels in recent quarters.

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The chief executive of Binance, the largest global cryptocurrency exchange, plans to step down and plead guilty to violating criminal U.S. anti-money-laundering requirements, in a deal that may preserve the company’s ability to continue operating, according to people familiar with the matter. And, the U.S. Department of Justice has just brought criminal charges against Binance and its billionaire founder and CEO, Changpeng Zhao.

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 Index was down 9.19 points (0.2%) at 4,538.19; the Dow Jones Industrial Average^® (DJI) was down 62.75 points (0.2%) at 35,088.29; the NASDAQ Composite was down 84.55 points (0.6%) at 14,199.98.

The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 2 basis points at 4.404%.
The CBOE Volatility Index^® (VIX) was down 0.06 at 13.35.

Financial and technology shares were among the weakest sectors Tuesday, with the KBW Regional Banking Index (KRX) dropping 2.1%. Small-cap stocks also gave back some of a recent rally, as the Russell 2000^® Index(RUT) fell 1.3% after touching a two-month high Monday. Health care, materials and utilities were among the few sectors to post gains.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource

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MARCINKO & Associates, Inc.

Posted on November 22, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

WHAT WE DO AND HOW WE ASSIST MEDICAL COLLEAGUES

Hard Business – Financial Advice AND Personal Lifestyle Coaching

http://www.MARCINKOASSOCIATES.com

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By Ann Miller RN MHA CMP™

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CONTACT US TODAY – THRIVE TOMORROW!

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email: MarcinkoAdvisors@msn.com

USA: Contact

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EPIC FAIL: Wither Medical Practice Digital Internet Campaigns?

Posted on November 22, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

SPONSORS: http://www.MARCINKOASSOCIATES.com

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Why Your Medical Internet Marketing Campaign Isn’t Effective

A strong online presence is crucial for healthcare businesses, but many are struggling to figure out where to invest their marketing dollars. It is important to diversify marketing efforts and not rely solely on one channel, as changes in the industry are inevitable.

Search marketing, direct marketing, and social media are three key components that healthcare organizations should incorporate in their marketing campaigns. Search marketing has evolved over the years with changes in Google’s algorithms and the saturation of the market, requiring a focus on quality content and the expertise of a PPC expert.

Direct marketing is becoming more popular, with lead generation companies and email marketing being effective and budget-friendly tactics. Social media is constantly evolving and increasing in price, with networks like Facebook and Twitter pushing paid advertisements. While social media should not be the focal point of a healthcare organization’s marketing campaign, it is an integral component that can contribute to search engine rankings.

Overall, a well-rounded marketing strategy that incorporates these three elements is crucial for success. A strong online presence is crucial for healthcare businesses, and diversifying marketing efforts across search marketing, direct marketing, and social media is important for success. Search marketing has changed with Google’s algorithms and increased ad costs, while direct marketing and social media have become more popular. Social media also affects search engine rankings.

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Filed under: "Ask-an-Advisor", "Doctors Only", Industry Indignation Index, Marketing & Advertising, Media Mentions and PR, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: clinical marketing, digital clinic marketing, digital medical marketing, direct medical marketing, healthcare adverstising, healthcare marketing, healthcare sales, Marcinko Associates, medical marketing, medical search marketing, medical social media | 1 Comment »

FINANCE BENEFITS: Health Care News

Posted on November 21, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

HSAs and FSAs

By Staff Reporters

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As cold and flu season truly sets in, major home delivery platforms are now allowing customers to purchase products using their health benefits.

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Two major healthcare deals closed last week, including a $3 billion merger between Virgin Pulse and third-party administrator HealthComp, on the heels of a relatively quiet year for healthcare M&A deals.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource

And … Redesign Health has launched Harmonic Health. The digital health company’s care team will partner with PCPs, neurologists, healthcare systems and ACOs to deliver comprehensive dementia care.

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Filed under: "Ask-an-Advisor", "Doctors Only", Alerts Sign-Up, Breaking News, Experts Invited, Funding Basics, Health Economics, Health Insurance, Health Law & Policy, Healthcare Finance, Information Technology, Managed Care, Practice Management | Tagged: ACO, ACOs, dementia, Fierce Health Finance, FSA, FSAs, Harmonic Health, HealthComp, HSA, HSAs, neurologists, PCPs, Redesign Health, VBC, Virgin Pulse | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: Microsoft and Strong Technology Stock Market Gains

Posted on November 21, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Stocks started the short trading week by ticking upward yesterday. Microsoft climbed to its highest in a year after appearing to be the winner in OpenAI’s Sam Altman drama.

Read: Recommendations on books, classes, and music from Bill Gates. (GatesNotes)

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Here is where the major US stock market benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 Index was up 33.36 points (0.7%) at 4,547.38; the Dow Jones^® Industrial Average (DJI) was up 203.76 points (0.6%) at 35,151.04; the NASDAQ Composite® was up 159.05 points (1.1%) at 14,284.53.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 2 basis points at 4.42%.
CBOE Volatility Index® (VIX) was down 0.39 at 13.41.

Strength in technology was illustrated by the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX), which jumped almost 2% and neared a four-month high. Communications services shares were also strong, as were energy companies, helped by a second-straight day of sharp gains in crude oil futures.

The small-cap focused Russell 2000 Index (RUT) rose 0.5% to a two-month high, following last week’s 5.4% rally that outpaced its large-cap counterparts.

And, Bayer’s stock had its worst day ever, dropping the company’s value by ~$8 billion, after a US jury ordered it to pay $1.56 billion over claims its Roundup weedkiller caused cancer and the company had to stop the trial for its top drug candidate because it wasn’t working.

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Filed under: "Ask-an-Advisor", Alerts Sign-Up, Alternative Investments, Drugs and Pharma, Financial Planning, Funding Basics, Glossary Terms, Health Economics, Healthcare Finance, Interviews, Investing, Recommended Books, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: AI, altman, banks, Bayer, Bill Gates, DJIAm, energy, Gates, gold, inflation, Marcinko, markets, metals, microsoft, MSFT, NASDAQ, oil, openAI, real-estate, referral, Russell Index 2000, RUT, S&P 500, SOX, stock markets, TNX, utilities | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: Inflation Down but Old Navy and the Gap are Up as Altman Goes to Microsoft

Posted on November 20, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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News last week that inflation eased more than expected in October solidified the view that the Federal Reserve is done with its most aggressive rate-hike campaign in four decades. And that could be a boon for the stock market and your 401(k).

Over the last 10 rate hike cycles dating to 1974, the S&P 500 index rose an average 14.3% in the 12 months following the Fed’s final rate increase, according to an analysis by Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at Carson Group.

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Stocks climbed to reach their third positive week in a row for the first time since summer, boosted by data showing inflation is on its way down. And, the Gap soared as the retailer reported strong sales last quarter at both Old Navy and its namesake stores.

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Filed under: "Ask-an-Advisor", Alternative Investments, Experts Invited, Information Technology, Investing, Marcinko Associates, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: 401(k), altman, Carson Group, Federal Reserve, FOMC, Gap, inflation, Marcinko, markets, microsoft, NASDAQ, old navy, Ryan Detrick, S&P 500 | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: OpenAI’s Sam Altman Out – Maybe Not?

Posted on November 19, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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In a shocking move, the OpenAI’s board of directors pushed out CEO Sam Altman, one of the world’s most prominent tech executives. The company said that Altman “was not consistently candid in his communications with the board,” and thus the board lost its confidence in Altman’s ability to lead.

OpenAI, and Altman, became household names this year after the company’s ChatGPT chatbot sparked a frenzy around the field of generative artificial intelligence. OpenAI, which has received $13 billion in investment from Microsoft, is reportedly valued at $86 billion. CTO Mira Murati will keep the CEO seat warm for now.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource

Back In? https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2023/11/breaking-sam-altman-reportedly-in-talks-for-potential-return-as-openai-ceo/

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Filed under: Alternative Investments, Financial Planning, Information Technology, Investing, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: ChatGPT, Marcinko, microsoft, Mira Murati, MSN, openAI, Sam Altman | Leave a comment »

HEALTH FRAUD: Abuse Control Program Annual Report

Posted on November 18, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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Healthcare Fraud and Abuse Control Program Annual Report Released

In Fiscal Year (FY) 2022, the Department of Justice (DOJ) opened more than 809 new criminal healthcare fraud investigations. Federal prosecutors filed criminal charges in over 419 cases involving at least 680 defendants. More than 477 defendants were convicted of healthcare fraud related crimes during the year. Also, in FY 2022, DOJ opened more than 774 new civil healthcare fraud investigations and had over 1,288 civil healthcare fraud matters pending at the end of the fiscal year.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigative efforts resulted in over 499 operational disruptions of criminal fraud organizations and the dismantlement of the criminal hierarchy of more than 132 healthcare fraud criminal enterprises. In FY 2022, investigations conducted by HHS’s Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) resulted in 661 criminal actions against individuals or entities that engaged in crimes related to Medicare and Medicaid, and 726 civil actions, which include false claims, unjust-enrichment lawsuits filed in Federal district court, and civil monetary penalty (CMP) settlements. HHS-OIG excluded 2,332 individuals and entities from participation in Medicare, Medicaid, and other Federal healthcare programs.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Justice

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Filed under: "Doctors Only", Ethics, Health Law & Policy, Industry Indignation Index, Risk Management | Tagged: DOJ, FBi, Federal health care, health abuse, health care fraud abuse, health fraud, healthcare abuse, healthcare fraud, HHS, Medicaid, medicare | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: The U.S. Stock Markets

Posted on November 18, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Here is where the major benchmarks ended on Friday:

The S&P 500 Index (SPX) was up 5.78 points (0.1%) at 4,514.02, up 2.2% for the week; the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) was up 1.81 points at 34,947.28, up 1.9% for the week; the NASDAQ Composite was up 11.81 points (0.1%) at 14,125.48, up 2.4% for the week.
The 10-year Treasury note yield was down about 1 basis point at 4.439%.
CBOE’s Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.54 at 13.78.

Retail shares were among Friday’s strongest sectors, helped by a nearly 30% surge by Gap (GPS) after the apparel company stronger-than-expected quarterly results. Energy companies were also higher thanks to a nearly 4% rise in WTI Crude Oil futures (/CL). Oil prices are still down 20% from a 2023 peak of more than $95 posted in late September.

In other markets, the U.S. dollar index dropped 1.8% for the week to touch its weakest level since September 1st, reflecting stepped-up expectations that interest rates have peaked.

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Filed under: Alternative Investments, Financial Planning, Funding Basics, Glossary Terms, Investing, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: banks, crude oil, DJIAm, energy, Gap, gold, inflation, Marcinko, markets, metals, NASDAQ, oil, real-estate, Russell Index 2000, RUT, S&P 500, stock markets, TNX, utilities, WTI | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: Mixed U.S. Stock Markets

Posted on November 17, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Over the course of the last few weeks, Cathie Wood of ARKK has been offloading the firm’s holdings in Roku, Inc. (NASDAQ:ROKU). Across all of her firm’s funds, Wood has sold stock in the streaming company totaling over $56 million. The move comes after Roku released its financials for q3.

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 Index was up 5.36 points (0.1%) at 4,508.24; the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 45.74 points (0.1%) at 34,945.47; the NASDAQ Composite was up 9.84 points (0.1%) at 14,113.67.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was uabout 9 basis points at 4.445%.
Cboe’s Volatility Index (VIX) was up 0.14 at 14.32.

Walmart’s commentary weighed on the retail sector. Energy was also a laggard, as crude oil futures fell 5% to a four-month low of less than $73 a barrel, in part because record U.S. crude production has boosted supply.

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Filed under: "Ask-an-Advisor", Alternative Investments, Financial Planning, Funding Basics, Glossary Terms, Investing, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: ARKK, banks, Cathie Wood, crude, energy, gold, inflation, Marcinko, markets, metals, NASDAQ, oil, real-estate, Roku, Russell Index 2000, RUT, S&P 500, stock markets, TNX, utilities, VIX, Walmart | Leave a comment »

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER: Doctors, FAs and the Winter Blues

Posted on November 17, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

Out … Like a Light!

DST: Daylight saving time, also known as daylight savings time or daylight time, and summer time, is the practice of advancing clocks during warmer months so that darkness falls at a later clock time.

BUT – Do you have trouble fitting daylight into your winter lifestyle? Or, have difficulty seeing medical patients, making hospital rounds, or serving consulting or financial advisory clients? Maybe it’s SAD?

But, how do you cope with the long dark, days of December and January?

To raise awareness of SAD, First Choice has brought together statistics from sources such as SADA, SAD.org.uk, Bupa and the Mood Disorders Society of Canada to create this new infographic.

In it you can find out how much daylight office workers receive year-round, as well as a collection of facts that can help you recognize and treat SAD. With December and the winter solstice drawing in we are certainly in for some short days in the coming weeks.

Conclusion

And so, your thoughts and comments on this ME-P are appreciated. Regardless of occupation, how do you cope with SAD?

Feel free to review our top-left column, and top-right sidebar materials, links, URLs and related websites, too. Then, subscribe to the ME-P. It is fast, free and secure.

Speaker: If you need a moderator or speaker for an upcoming event, Dr. David E. Marcinko; MBA – Publisher-in-Chief of the Medical Executive-Post – is available for seminar or speaking engagements. Contact: MarcinkoAdvisors@msn.com

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Filed under: Ethics | Tagged: daylight saving time, DST, SAD, SEASONAL AFFECTATION DISORDER, winter blues, winter lifestyle | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: Government Shutdown Averted as US Markets Extend their Gains

Posted on November 16, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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Senate leaders voted Wednesday night in favor of the short-term government funding bill the House passed Tuesday night ahead of Friday’s shutdown deadline. House Speaker Mike Johnson pitched a two-step plan that he described as a “laddered CR” — or continuing resolution — that will keep the government funded at 2023 levels. The bill extends government funding until January 19th for the Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Energy departments, as well as for military construction. The rest of the government is funded until February 2nd, 2024.

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500^® Index (SPX) was up 7.18 points (0.2%) at 4,502.88; the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 163.51 points (0.5%) at 34,991.21; the NASDAQ Composite was up 9.45 points (0.1%) at 14,103.84.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was up about 10 basis points at 4.541%.
CBOE’s Volatility Index (VIX) was up 0.02 at 14.18.

Retail and financial shares were among Wednesday’s strongest performers. The KBW Regional Banking Index (KRX) rose 1.3% to a 2½-month high. Transportation and consumer staples were also higher. Energy shares were one of the few laggards as crude oil futures sank more than 2% after the Energy Department reported a larger-than-expected increase in U.S. crude inventories.

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Filed under: Alternative Investments, Financial Planning, Funding Basics, Glossary Terms, Investing, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: banks, DJIAm, energy, gold, inflation, KBW, KRX, Marcinko, markets, metals, NASDAQ, oil, real-estate, Russell Index 2000, RUT, S&P 500, stock markets, TNX, utilities, VIX | Leave a comment »

NATIONAL: Nurse Practitioner Week

Posted on November 16, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

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Nurse Practitioner Week takes place annually in the second week of November to recognize these incredible healthcare providers and raise awareness of the powerful role they play in ensuring general health and well-being.

Can you believe that the nurse practitioner profession has been in existence for 56 years now? Nurse practitioners are highly educated and trained medical professionals who are almost like doctors. In addition to their fundamental roles as registered nurses, they can provide primary care, counseling, diagnosis, offer health education, and write prescriptions.

Want to become a nurse? Here are some nursing scholarships to help you.

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Filed under: "Doctors Only", Ethics, Events-Planner, Health Insurance, iMBA, Inc., LifeStyle | Tagged: national nurse practitioner week, NP, nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse practitioner week, RN, RNP | Leave a comment »

DAILY UPDATE: US Economic Prognostications as Stock Markets Surge

Posted on November 15, 2023 by Dr. David Edward Marcinko MBA MEd CMP™

By Staff Reporters

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SPONSOR: http://www.MarcinkoAssociates.com

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US Economic leaders are looking to the past for some inspiration on how to deal with the present—the only issue is, no one seems to be able to agree which past era they should be studying. But, predictions diverge, for example.

Deutsche Bank believes the U.S. economy closely resembles the turbulent times of the 1970s, an outlook prompted by the war in Israel, oil shocks, and rampant inflation.
Meanwhile economists at the White House say the inflationary period after World War II acts as a better guide because pent-up demand from the pandemic will eventually fade away.
UBS disagrees with both, saying the 1990s more closely resembles the economic climate world leaders are currently attempting to navigate. A note from the UBS Chief Investment Office, led by Jason Draho, questioned whether the 2020s would act as “another roaring 20s” seen a century before. During this period, technological advances led to a rapid increase in productivity, while major industries like automotive, film and chemicals took off. The data suggests today’s economy has officially entered a new regime, UBS outlined: “A regime is defined by its growth, inflation, and rate attributes. These are all at their highest levels since prior to the global financial crisis (GFC).”

Here is where the major benchmarks ended:

The S&P 500 Index was up 84.15 points (1.9%) at 4,495.70; the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) was up 489.83 points (1.4%) at 34,827.70; the NASDAQ Composite (COMP) was up 326.64 points (2.4%) at 14,094.38.
The 10-year Treasury note yield (TNX) was down about 18 basis points at 4.453%.
CBOE’s Volatility Index (VIX) was down 0.60 at 14.16.

The small-cap focused Russell 2000 Index (RUT), which has lagged large-cap benchmarks for most of the year, jumped more than 5% Tuesday. Small-caps are often seen as being more exposed to the economic cycle and had suffered because of concerns that high interest rates could push the economy into recession.

Other interest rate-sensitive sectors, such as real estate, materials, and utilities, also saw outsize gains.

CITE: https://www.r2library.com/Resource

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Filed under: Alternative Investments, Financial Planning, Funding Basics, Glossary Terms, Investing, Touring with Marcinko | Tagged: banks, DJIAm, energy, gold, inflation, Israel, Marcinko, markets, markets rise, metals, NASDAQ, oil, oil shocks, real-estate, Russell Index 2000, RUT, S&P 500, stock markets, TNX, UBS, UBS CHief Investment Officer, UBS CIO, US economic leaders, utilities | Leave a comment »

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