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Market & Economic Brief

November 19, 2008

WORLD MARKETS
After attempting a rally earlier in the month, U.S. stocks broke recent support levels and established fresh lows. Commodities and World REITs have also found new lows. Many international stock markets are still maintaining previous support levels. Intermediate term U.S. treasuries continue to rally in a flight to quality. The near term bias has again turned negative for stocks.

WORLD ECONOMY
The weekly leading and monthly coincident indexes we follow continue to weaken, suggesting more trouble ahead for the U.S. economy. Many European countries continue to report deteriorating economic conditions as well. China reported a dip in October retail sales but consumer spending has held up better than many other parts of their economy.

INFLATION DATA
Producer costs fell a record 2.8% in October, led by a huge decline in energy prices. Future inflation indicators we track also continue to decline.

U.S. RESIDENTIAL HOUSING
The Nat’l Association of Home Builders fell to its lowest level since 1985 in November. Home prices declined in 4 out of 5 cities during Q3. The FDIC has proposed using $24 bil. of the TARP funds to help stem foreclosures. The leading home price index we track rose slightly for August (the latest data available). Additional increases may signal a bottom in housing prices.

WANT TO LOWER COLLEGE COSTS?

At Dightman Capital Group we understand the work that goes into choosing the right college for your son or daughter. We also understand that, other than planning for retirement, a college education for your student will be one of your biggest financial burdens. Our goal is to cut through the financial confusion, paperwork and bureaucracy to find the right solution for your unique needs.

Financial Considerations

There are many financial elements involved in the process and we can help clear up all the confusion. Our service will introduce you to the unique tax laws associated with college savings and spending. We will also help you sort through how universities award financial assistance by evaluating merit aid, gift aid, scholarships, loans, work-study etc. We will also provide you with a side by side comparison of financial aid available to your student for the schools of his or her choice.

Academic Considerations

There are several academic factors that can impact the attractiveness of your student to a particular university. Our service will outline several strategies to consider beyond encouraging students to deliver good grades. It’s never too early to have a good academic strategy and, for that matter, it is never too late. We can show seniors who may think that they’ve missed the boat how they can set themselves up for success.

Admissions Strategy

When comparing and selecting colleges for your student, you need to understand the competition. First, your student needs to know how they compare to other students at a particular school. Universities also have admission goals and will compete for the right students. How the student approaches the admissions strategy can have a big impact on whether they are even considered. Our service will provide you and your student with an understanding of this unique process and the ability to develop a plan to separate your application from the rest of the stack.

Our Service Provides:

Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculation
EFC with potential asset & income changes
Financial Aid Statistics for each college of interest
Aid Eligibility Report
What Will College Cost Estimate Report
Comprehensive 2-page report on each college from Wintergreen Orchard House
Cash Flow Report for College Years
FAFSA Example & Answer Key
PROFILE Example & Answer Key
Academic Suggestions & Strategies
Admissions overview & approach
Report: Tips for Staying Safe on Campus
Report: How to Avoid Financial Traps on Campus
Peace of mind knowing you have a college plan

We make it very easy to explore our service in more detail. For additional information, don’t hesitate to call and set up your FREE consultation. Call 206.652.8300 or send an email to