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Q2 2025 Performance Review: A volatile quarter for stocks ends on a high.
The second quarter was a period of extremes. In early April, the S&P 500 briefly fell into bear market territory, having declined more than 20% from its highs on worries about the “Liberation Day” tariff announcement. But after the initial tariff plan was put on “pause” stocks began to recover. By the end of the quarter global stocks were trading at all-time highs. Here are our thoughts on what happened this quarter, how it impacted our strategies, and what we expect in the coming quarters.
Israel-Iran conflict: A guide for U.S. investors amid market uncertainty.
The recent conflict in Iran has understandably put investors on edge. But what might the actual economic impact of this conflict be? Does it suggest any portfolio changes? Here are our thoughts in how these events could influence the economy, markets and your money.
When will the Fed cut rates? June meeting points to a timeline.
As was widely expected, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady at its June meeting, navigating a difficult moment with risks to both inflation and economic growth. While a potential tariff-driven price spike is keeping the Fed on hold for now, a closer look at their projections and Fed Chair Jerome Powell's comments reveals a clear bias towards cutting rates later this year.
Stock market 101: A beginner's guide
What is the stock market? What are stocks? How do stocks fit into your overall financial plan? Here are some answers.
What is an emergency fund?
An emergency fund is designed to be a safety net for “surprise” expenses. Learn more about what it is and why it is important.
The real reason mortgage rates are so high (and why they probably won't drop soon)
Mortgage rates have remained stubbornly elevated, hovering around 7% for much of the last three years. Many are understandably hoping for rates to drop, whether to purchase a new home or to refinance an existing mortgage. This analysis will explore the key drivers of mortgage rates and offer our perspective on where they might be ... Read more
"One Big Beautiful Bill": Tax cuts, deficit impact and investor outlook
A significant budget deal, officially titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, recently passed the House of Representatives. Investors are already trying to game out how the budget could impact the economy, interest rates and stocks. Here are our views on how this budget could impact your investments.
Got a concentrated stock holding? How to diversify in a tax-smart way
A common problem we see among members is how to handle a single stock that has become too large within their portfolio. It is a good problem to have, but presents a real challenge. Here are some general principles for approaching this, applicable whether the stock is from your employer or simply a long-held investment that has appreciated.
The 2025 tariff shock: Inflation peak, economic risks and Fed's next move
Recent warnings from major retailers, like Walmart, suggest that price increases related to newly implemented or proposed tariffs are on the horizon. This raises critical questions for consumers and investors: How high could inflation go? How long might these effects last? And what does this all mean for your money?