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FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
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May 2024
Facts First, Act Later
WE WENT TO THE VET
Like many of you, Nancy and I have two fur babies, both of which are dogs. As pet owners know, our fur babies’ adventures can send us running to the vet. Most recently, our little half-cocker spaniel-half- poodle mix ate a gecko. We didn’t know at the time that was the problem. But they were heaving, and we had been told that after three heaves, you should take them to the vet. We were a little more patient than that. After eight heaves, we went to the vet, and my wife was very distraught. She had gone online and found that the situation is generally catastrophic if a dog is heaving more than three times. When Nancy shared her concerns with the vet, the doctor told her a story about one of her best friends who had gone online to check out her condition, went through the medical online portal, answered all the questions correctly, and defined her symptoms. She was distraught by the results and called her best friend — the vet.
conditions were properly diagnosed, and she was treated. As the story shows, sometimes, we rely too much on online self-diagnosis to predict health problems. When the topic is your money, online prognostications can be just as crippling. You can find all kinds of predictions online about how banks are going to fail. That the U.S. dollar is going to be worth less than toilet paper, the economy is going to collapse, we are going to be using nothing but precious metals as money, and that Social Security is going to run out of money, leaving our elderly wanting for food. I could go on and on with several other online predictions of financial calamity. I’m not going to tell you that nothing predicted online will come true. But I will tell you that if Social Security fails, the American government will fail, which means the world economy will fail. We’ve all heard the term “too big to fail” before, and that is true for the Social Security system. It also can be true for another scenario some people believe — that China will call all the U.S. debt it owns, and we will go broke and be unable to pay it. This simply isn’t true. The United States is the largest holder of gold in the world. Also, any Chinese selloff of U.S. debt would probably hurt China more than the U.S. by upsetting global currency markets. As we clear these clouds of misconception and expose everything to the light, we can see that we are all in this world together. Following that thought process, I admit I never have been and still am not the biggest recycler, but thankfully my wife makes up for where I lack. But I do recycle some items now. I realized that I should change my ways
in church one Sunday when I heard that Jesus would come back to reign on Earth and Heaven would be an earthly Heaven. And I’m asking myself, “What would become of all this trash I helped create?” So, I have started recycling trash instead of just throwing it out. My point is that we need to take care of ourselves and our families first and then help our fellow man. If you’re not well enough to take care of yourself, you cannot rescue anyone else. The same holds true for your money and your investments. That’s why at Mattson Financial Services, we believe in a diversified portfolio that moves tactically. When markets are going down, we buy, and when markets are going up, we sell. We are not perfect, but we have been tracking indicators of our performance and philosophy for decades so clients may enjoy a successful retirement. I don’t believe there has been a single scenario where a client has not been better off after 36 months of working with a financial advisor at our firm compared with investing on their own or relying on the internet. We’re proud to assist our clients every step of the way and to answer their questions with solid, proven advice. Stay tuned for our June newsletter to find out what happened to our dog! I will continue the story on these pages next month. Until then — if you think you have testicular cancer, I suggest you get it checked out. But don’t worry about it until you get the diagnosis! –Gary Mattson
“All indications are that I have cancer,” she told the vet.
Now, her friend, the vet, who deals with the emotional side of medical issues daily, asked her to tell her more. The woman insisted, “I went through the online diagnostic system, and I am pretty sure that I have cancer!” The vet asked her if she knew what kind, and the woman replied, “Yes, I have testicular cancer.” “I don’t think so,” the vet said. “I am pretty sure you don’t have testicular cancer because you are not male.” This is a comical story because as it turned out, the woman did have other problems that weren’t cancer. Those
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GEAR UP YOUR PUP FOR A HIKING ADVENTURE
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must-have hiking gear for your canine companion. FOOD AND WATER One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible
bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks.
at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed. WASTE BAGS Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. EMERGENCY HARNESS Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
FIRST-AID KIT Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse.
BOOTS While some dogs may resist wearing
boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is,
Read Trends Like a Pro for Smart Forex Investment
Investors buy, sell, and exchange real-world currencies through the foreign exchange market (forex or FX). It is substantially distinct from other markets:
If you’ve invested in forex, you’re looking for these trends. They’re among the most critical factors determining when you buy or sell.
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It’s the largest financial market in the world.
• Uptrend: Prices trend toward a higher price, like climbing a mountain. This is the time to buy. • Downtrend: Prices drop downward, like skiing the aforementioned mountain. This is the time to sell.
• It determines the exchange rate for currencies around the world. • It’s open 24/7, so trading can happen at any time of the day. • Currencies are always traded in pairs, one country’s money for another. • Currencies are a lot less volatile than other markets. Some currencies, like the U.S. dollar or Japanese yen, are “free-floating,” which means their relative value is determined by free-market forces, such as supply-demand relationships. Other countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Panama, are “fixed float,” meaning a country’s governing body sets its currency’s value relative to other currencies. There are several advantages to trading on FX, including fewer rules, no central body oversight, and no fees or commissions. There are also disadvantages, like being unregulated, relying on the currency’s appreciation, and traders not having complete control over their trades. Information is an essential ingredient to achieving a profit. Investors must have data to speculate successfully, so they must read charts. The shifting trends value is constant; charts help investors visualize them to make the right decisions.
While many websites offer online charts, developing this analytical skill gives you a deeper understanding of the market.
Open up a candle chart and look at the currency’s current value. Candle charts depict price as a line with peaks and valleys.
Follow the line backward and find two recent highs and lows. Prices are constantly changing, but you must determine the overall direction of the currency’s value.
Figure out if these points are going upward or downward. This determines the timing of your trades.
Once you plot the chart, you can see where the currency’s value is going and invest accordingly. The forex market is full of opportunities. Solid chart analysis skills are necessary to take advantage of them and make a profit.
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June Market Commentary Release June 7, 2024, 12 p.m. A recap on market performance and outlook will be sent via email. July Market Commentary Release July 14, 2024, 12 p.m. A recap on market performance and outlook will be sent via email. August In-Person First Friday Event Aug. 2, 2024, 12–3 p.m. Lower Garden Level 3226 28th St. SE Kentwood, MI 49512 A family harmony event featuring speakers from Alles Law and MKD Funeral Homes to discuss successor trustees and sunset planning. Stay for the LIVE market update at 2 p.m.!
Haley’s
OLIVE OIL CAKE WITH HONEY-YOGURT CREAM AND STRAWBERRIES
Inspired by EatingWell.com
Ingredients
• • • • • • • •
1 1/2 cups almond flour 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• • •
3 1/2 tbsp lime juice 1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda
2 qts fresh strawberries, quartered 1 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
•
4 large eggs
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• •
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp lime zest
1/4 cup honey
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease 8-inch springform pan. Line with parchment paper and lightly grease. 2. In medium bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, and baking soda. 3. In a stand mixer, whisk sugar and eggs on medium-high, about 3 minutes. Add oil, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla. On low, gradually add flour mixture until just incorporated. 4. Pour batter into pan. Bake until golden brown and toothpick comes out with crumbs, 40–45 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes. Invert cake out of pan onto wire rack and let cool completely. 5. Whisk yogurt, cream, and honey. Top each cake slice with spoonfuls of yogurt mixture and strawberries.
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FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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The Key to Drawing Wise Conclusions
Paws and Paths! How to Analyze and Interpret Trends in Forex Charts Olive Oil Cake With Honey-Yogurt Cream and Strawberries Upcoming Events
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Explore the Historic Fortifications of the Highlands
**Reminder: If you have any changes to your financial situation, please notify us as soon as possible.
Investment advisory services offered through Mattson Financial Services, LLC, an SEC-Registered Investment Advisor. Insurance and annuities offered through Lakeview Financial Group, LLC. Mattson Financial Services, LLC and Lakeview Financial Group, LLC are affiliated companies.
DEFENDING THE HIGHLANDS
From the heights of Castle Hill to the idyllic waters of Loch Duich, the historic castles of Scotland stun tourists and history enthusiasts alike. Today, these castles are well-maintained and ready to receive visitors from around the world. If you want to explore the beauty of the highlands from the rocky ramparts of Scotland’s greatest castles, these are three landmarks you need to visit. EDINBURGH CASTLE Located amidst Edinburgh’s Old Town — a World Heritage Site — the daunting and long-standing Edinburgh Castle on Castle Hill is a bulwark that has defended the Scottish capital for nearly a millennium. The military still uses parts of the formidable ramparts, but the rest serves as a can’t-miss tourist destination. The castle also houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, known as the Honours, and famed cannons, like Mons Meg, one of the grandest pieces of medieval artillery ever constructed and given to King James II in 1457 A.D. DUNNOTTAR CASTLE Dunnottar Castle is located on the northeastern coast of Scotland and is surrounded on three sides by the waters of the North Sea. There is evidence that ancient Picts lived in the area long before a monastery was consecrated on the grounds in 1276 A.D. In 1392, Sir William Keith seized Scotland’s Must-See Castles
the holy site’s strategic location by building its first stone fortification, The Keep. An even more unorthodox move came in 1593, when George Keith, the 5th Earl Marischal, built The Lion’s Den at Dunnottar Castle to house his pet lion.
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE There is a reason Eilean
Donan Castle is one of the most photographed castles in the world! Situated on a tiny island at the mouth of
Loch Duich, this formidable fortress began as a monastery in 634 A.D. before being converted to a fortress in the 12th century to protect the area from Viking raids. Now administered by the Conchra Charitable Trust, this castle houses rare artifacts, such as a sword rumored to be from the famed battle of Culloden in 1745.
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