Source: Yahoo! Finance.  Data through 4-15-11

The markets took another hit this past week as there was no shortage of events for investors to digest.  Earnings season kicked off (JP Morgan and Alcoa were two of the major corporations to report), which brought attention back to the US economy.  Higher oil prices, increased unemployment claims, rising import prices in the US, and the continuing saga of debt woes in Europe all had a part in the down week as well.  Gold and silver continue to reach new highs due to investors’ reaction to the Fed and the current monetary policy.

Speaking of gold, you may find this Bloomberg article interesting:  Texas University Takes Delivery of $1 Billion in Gold Bars.  If more pensions and endowments follow suit, look for the price to rise even more.  This is just another example of why I continue to recommend gold (and silver) for my clients’ portfolios.

Ahead this week, earnings season continues with Citigroup, Texas Instruments, Intel, Apple, and McDonalds all reporting.  Housing information will be the main economic data released this week, though expectations aren’t very high.

Are your investments protected against our country’s current monetary policy?  Do you have investments that will hedge your portfolio against high inflation?  Call me to schedule a free review of your current investment portfolio – 913.693.7918.

John P. Chladek, MBA, CFP^® is the President of Chladek Wealth Management, LLC, a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm specializing in helping families and couples who are not yet retired realize their financial goals.  For more information, visit https://www.chladekwealth.com.

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