Approach very carefully and with a clear understanding of the trade-offs One of the most significant shifts in retirement investing in decades is underway: the Trump administration has signed an executive order intended to open up 401(k) accounts and other employer-sponsored retirement plans to private-market assets – including private equity, private credit, and real estate. For private-asset firms like Apollo, KKR, Carlyle, and Blackstone, this is an enormous opportunity. A $12 trillion … [Read more...]
Five Key Impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Changes for equity investors and potential actions to consider in response On July 3, 2025, Congress passed and on July 4th the President signed into law the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA), a sweeping fiscal package aimed at tax reform, business incentives, and federal budget adjustments. While broad in scope, the bill contains several provisions that could have material implications for public equity markets. Here are five of the most financially significant changes for investors and … [Read more...]
Implications of the U.S. Credit Rating Downgrade
More of a signal about long-term fiscal challenges, not an immediate worry The recent downgrade of U.S. sovereign debt by Moody’s marks a significant moment in American financial history. For the first time, all three major credit rating agencies have removed the United States from their highest credit tier. As an investor, it’s essential to view this development within its historical context and consider its practical implications for the markets and your investment portfolio. A Brief History … [Read more...]
2025 Retirement Contribution Limits and Updates
Make the most of your retirement savings options and secure a stable future Planning for retirement is a cornerstone of financial wellness. Each year, the Internal Revenue Service adjusts contribution limits for various retirement accounts to reflect inflation and ensure individuals have ample opportunities to save for their future. In 2025, significant changes to contribution limits and income restrictions offer new opportunities for savers, especially for those utilizing 401(k)s, IRAs, and … [Read more...]
AI and Productivity – A Revolution in Waiting?
Focus on tangible economic impacts and not speculative stock movements The past week delivered a stark reminder to artificial intelligence investors of how swiftly fortunes can shift. The sudden emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm boasting a world-class model developed at a fraction of the cost of its Western rivals, triggered a massive selloff in Nvidia and other US tech leaders. This market reaction underscores the rapidly evolving competitive landscape of AI – but what are the broader … [Read more...]
What to Expect in 2025 From a 2nd Trump Term
Predictions vary, but the overarching themes provide a roadmap for 2025 As your financial advisor, it’s my role to help you navigate the opportunities and challenges of the financial markets, especially during times of significant change. With the return of Donald J. Trump to the White House, 2025 is shaping up to be an unconventional year. Wall Street’s projections, traditionally centered on growth, inflation, and other economic indicators, are now profoundly influenced by this singular … [Read more...]
A Quarter-Point Rate Cut Days After the Election
Implications for household finances, stock markets and bond markets In a recent decision, the Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point, a move aimed at bolstering the economy amid ongoing uncertainty. Interest rate adjustments are a fundamental part of the Fed's monetary policy toolkit, used to manage economic growth, control inflation, and respond to potential economic downturns. Here is how this rate cut might impact households, stock markets, and bond … [Read more...]
Fed Rate Cut: Short & Medium-Term Implications
While important, it should not be the sole driver of your investment decisions The Federal Reserve plays a pivotal role in the U.S. economy, and one of its most influential tools is the adjustment of interest rates. When the Fed cuts interest rates, it can have wide-reaching effects across the economy, including for consumers, stock market investors, and bond market investors. Recently, the Fed decided to cut rates by 50 basis points (0.50%), a significant move that signals a shift in monetary … [Read more...]