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While last year came in on the heels of one of the worst years economically since the great depression, 2010 seems to be on the mend according to Edward Jones financial advisor Glenese Pettey. "Since March of '09, it's been a blessing to see the increases made in the market. Actually there's been a 60% increase in the market ending in December of '09," said Pettey who in the fall of last year opened her new office in Kenai. "I'm very proud to be here in my new office and welcome all my clients and future clients to come by and visit us right here on Main Street across from the old court house and catty corner from the Kenai library in the Dcor building," she added.

Pettey doesn't claim to have a crystal ball that can forecast the market for the coming year, but says investing isn't about timing the market, but the amount of time you are in the market. "What I do help my clients do, is plan for the specific financial needs and make sure that they are investing for the long term, are well diversified, and confirming that their risk tolerance is matched with what they have in mind. Here at Edward Jones, we customize our client's investments to their particular needs to reach their personal goals," said Pettey. Regarding the best time of life to start investing Pettey says the sooner the better. "The advantage that my younger clients have is that of investing over time and compounding those investments to reach their goals. So when you start your first job, stop in and see me and I can help you plan an investment strategy for a long term plan, so you can reach your financial goals for your college education, education of your children, or your retirement. Regarding the annual Alaskan Permanent Fund Dividend there is something called a Roth retirement account that individual investors may take advantage of that utilizes after-tax dollars so that they can have a portion of their retirement plan that is tax free. Also for children getting PFDs a good strategy is to utilize a portion of those funds to go toward future costs of college, and we can help them make those investments to have the greatest returns and lessen the expense of a college education," explained Pettey.

Glenese says there is no cost to come in for a complementary investment portfolio analysis that provides the individual investor a snapshot or graph picture of how their investments are doing, and what might be done to make your investments work even harder for you. Pettey's office is the fourth Edward Jones office to open in the Central Peninsula, and says while Edward Jones is a team or family effort, each office is independent. "We each have our individual clients, but we do share our expertise and encourage each other as part of the Edward Jones community. The best prediction for 2010 that I can offer is to be sure you are not sitting on the sidelines. A lot of people bailed out of the market and have missed the opportunity of the 60% growth that I mentioned, so come on in and let us give you some insights on getting back into the market and get your hard earned dollars working hard for you," concluded Pettey. To reach Glenese Pettey call her office at 283-4567, or stop by during regular office hours 8:00am - 5:00pm Monday - Friday at her new office in the Dcor building in Kenai.