Markets expect the Federal Reserve to announce another interest-rate reduction at the conclusion of its meeting today, and investors will be watching for clues about another potential cut before the end of the year. The Fed's mission is complicated by the ongoing government shutdown, which has delayed the release of key data, making it more difficult to get a clear read on the direction of the economy.

Fifty-nine percent of respondents to a Capital Group Companies paper indicate that they would prefer an investment strategy that offers lower risk with lower returns as opposed to higher risk with higher returns. In addition, 60% said they would prioritize generating a steady income rather than reinvesting.

Four-fifths of Americans report that unexpected medical costs could disrupt their financial plans, according to an Equitable Financial survey, and 12% say they would have to take a hardship withdrawal from a retirement account. Younger respondents were more likely to report that they would have to take such a withdrawal, which can hamper retirement preparation.

In addition to defining the course of interest-rate policy, Federal Reserve officials will also have to determine how quickly to wind down the central bank's efforts to shrink its $6.6 trillion asset portfolio. Some analysts believe that firmer-than-expected pressure in overnight funding markets could encourage the Fed to end the reduction more quickly than previously anticipated.

President Donald Trump is looking to make progress on trade during his tour of Asia this week, with upcoming meetings scheduled with the leaders of South Korea and China. As part of the trip, the US and Japan signed an agreement for a framework on the mining and processing of rare earth metals and other minerals. Meanwhile, more work is needed on trade issues involving South Korea, India, Australia and Taiwan. US markets rose on Tuesday as investors reacted to the latest trade developments and earnings reports and looked ahead to the conclusion of the Federal Reserve meeting.

Attorneys David Handler and Alison Lothes review recent tax developments, including inflation adjustments from the IRS and a private letter ruling related to the generation-skipping transfer tax.

AI can help shape the future of the annuity sector by enhancing client interactions, aiding regulatory compliance and simplifying correspondence, writes Thomas Bumbolow of American Life. "As AI adoption accelerates and the industry explores more advanced capabilities, disciplined governance is becoming increasingly essential," Bumbolow notes.

For those who are eligible, health savings accounts can be a powerful way to save and invest money, thanks to their favorable tax treatment. The tax and spending legislation passed over the summer could open this strategy to more people, as it made more marketplace health plans HSA-eligible.

Savers with income that exceeds certain thresholds may be subject to a surcharge on Medicare Part B and Part D premiums. Certain planning techniques may ease the burden, writes Roger Wohlner, discussing Roth conversions, qualified charitable distributions and careful timing of Social Security benefits.