How Wealthy Consumers Are Keeping Growth Afloat As financial professionals, we often describe the U.S. economy as primarily driven by the consumer. Household spending accounts for nearly two-thirds of total economic activity, making it the cornerstone of both growth and resilience. Recent data, however, underscores an important nuance: not all consumers are contributing equally. The spending power of the wealthiest households is carrying a disproportionate share of activity—more so than at any … [Read more...]
Private Equity Could Be Headed for Your 401(k)
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...]
Markets Are Hitting New Records. Know Why?
Maybe not – but make sure you are guided by a grounded, flexible plan One of the most common – and confounding – questions in investing is: Why are stocks rising right now? Sometimes, there’s a clear explanation: a strong earnings report, favorable economic data, or a shift in interest rates. But more often than not, the market moves in ways that even seasoned professionals struggle to explain. A now-famous satirical article once joked that stocks “rallied early this morning for reasons … [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...]
July Market Commentary
July 2025 Well, I think the bargaining chips worked out…. (The threat of tariffs- see last quarter’s commentary.) The market has been very happy for the last couple of months. For all the tariff drama, you would have thought the world was coming to an end, but it hasn’t, we’re still here. And the market is fine, hitting new record highs….. Some of our research vendors have pointed out some interesting statistics. Mainly when the market has a pullback like we saw in April and then gets … [Read more...]
How to Plan Your Retirement in a Complex World
Ten insights to help you navigate your retirement with clarity and confidence Retirement in the 21st century is evolving faster than ever. Gone are the days when retirees could count on a pension, a Social Security check, and a conservative bond portfolio to meet their needs. Today’s retirees face a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment shaped by policy uncertainty, market volatility, inflation pressures, and rapid technological change. As financial advisors, it’s our role to provide … [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...]
Disciplined Investors versus Motivated Investors
While both have the goal of wealth creation, their paths differ dramatically Investing in the financial markets is often seen as a path to wealth creation and financial security. However, the journey is not without its challenges, and the approach an investor takes can significantly impact their long-term success. Two common mindsets dominate the investment landscape: the Disciplined Investor and the Motivated Investor. Understanding the differences between these two archetypes is crucial for … [Read more...]
April is Financial Literacy Month: Why it Matters
Financial pitfalls have lifelong consequences and education is your defense Every April, the United States observes Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to raising public awareness about the importance of financial education. At its core, financial literacy is the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including personal financial management, budgeting, and investing. This annual spotlight is more than just a campaign – it’s a national call to action to … [Read more...]
April Market Commentary
April 2025 To tariff or not to tariff? The news is so focused on tariffs and the devastation they could bring....(Even though they're mainly used as a bargaining chip.) And all the executive orders that keep coming out of the White House, (and then blocked by judges and courts.) Then there's news he could run for a third term...(Of course, only if congress voted to allow it, and most likely it will never happen.) Last, you have the stock market. It's been down this first quarter. (After two … [Read more...]