Weak Income Growth a Drag on the Economy

3%: Average annual income growth over the last 50 years

With a sluggish economy and little growth in incomes for most households, it is extremely difficult to imagine how the broader economy will be able to shift into a higher gear. The latest data shows that, on an inflation—adjusted basis, disposable income is up only 1.1% on an annual basis, a weak number by historical standards. Over the last 50 years, annual income growth has averaged over 3%. Current income growth also compares poorly to the average growth over the past three years of 1.7%.

How do other economic indicators look this week? Read the Weekly US Commentary from Chief Investment Strategist Russ Koesterich to find out.

Source: BlackRock, July 2013

http://www2.blackrock.com/

Prepared by BlackRock

Delivered courtesy Joel W. Grams, CRPC®, CLTC,

Registered Representative, 212 Capital Group

38 Main Street Suite 360, Westlake Ohio 44145

(440) 835-4501 Ext 17, jgrams@212capitalgroup.com

The foregoing discussion is general in nature and not intended as specific advice. New England Financial nor its representatives are engaged in rendering tax, accounting or legal advice. A qualified professional should be consulted regarding the effect of such considerations on the matters covered in this publication.

For information on New England Financial insurance or other financial products and services, please contact

 Joel W. Grams, CRPC®, CLTC, Registered Representative, with/New England  Financial 38 Main Street Suite 360, Westlake, OH 44145, at (440) 835-4501 ext. 17, jgrams@212capitalgroup.com

www.212capitalgroup.com              

.

New England Financial is the registered mark for New England Life Insurance Company (NELICO) Boston, MA 02116. Securities and investment advisory services offered through New England Securities, Corp. (NES)(member FINRA/SIPC) a Registered Investment Advisor. NELICO and NES are MetLife companies. 212 Capital Group is not affiliated with NES. L1013346660[exp0314][OH]