Investors' Insights and Market Updates

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Robert Moody breaks down the Roth 401(k) and how it compares to a traditional 401(k), along with how to know which one may be the best fit for your goals. From tax-free growth and withdrawals to contribution limits, employer matching, and tax diversification, this episode highlights the key pros and cons to help you make a confident decision. He also walks through common situations where a Roth 401(k) can be especially valuable, including for younger savers, higher earners, and those planning for long-term flexibility in retirement. Watch to learn more. Robert Moody, CFP®, CEPA® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Robert Moody here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. A Roth IRA offers tax deferral on any earnings in the account. Qualified withdrawals of earnings from the account are tax-free. Withdrawals of earnings prior to age 59 ½ or prior to the account being opened for 5 years, whichever is later, may result in a 10% IRS penalty tax. Limitations and restrictions may apply. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Pros and Cons of a Roth 401(k) first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Mark Hume breaks down the topic of allowing private investments inside 401(k) plans and what it could mean for everyday investors. Private equity may offer new opportunities for diversification beyond public markets, but it also comes with important differences like fees, transparency, and how these investments are evaluated. This episode highlights the key pros and cons to understand, so that you can make informed decisions as this space continues to evolve. Watch to learn more. Mark Hume, CFP® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Mark Hume here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Hold Your Horses first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Market Breadth is Strengthening One of the most important themes so far this year has been the broadening out of the stock market. In recent years, the market’s gains were heavily concentrated in the largest companies, particularly the “Magnificent 7,” with the top 5 to 10 stocks dramatically outperforming the rest of the index. This year, the pattern has shifted in a meaningful way. Instead of a narrow rally led by a small group at the top, a much larger share of the S&P 500 has begun contributing to overall performance. While these companies may be smaller relative to the largest names, they are still substantial businesses, and their improved participation is a healthy sign for the market. Several indicators reinforce this trend: 68% of S&P 500 stocks are currently trading above their 200-day moving average, which is the highest level since 2024. This suggests the overall market remains structurally intact despite periodic pullbacks and volatility. The percentage of stocks reaching 52-week highs is extremely strong, sitting around the 96th percentile, a level typically associated with broad momentum. Perhaps most striking is how dramatically the market’s leadership has changed. In 2023, 2024, and 2025, the top 10 stocks contributed more than 50% of the S&P 500’s total performance. In 2026, the market is still up year-to-date, but the top 10 stocks have actually detracted from returns by roughly 26%. That final point highlights how different the current environment is. The market is moving higher, but not because the largest names are carrying the index. Instead, strength is spreading across a broader base of companies. The Inflation vs. Productivity Test for 2026 A broadening market is generally considered a healthier market. When more companies participate in a rally, it suggests the underlying economy is stronger and more evenly supported. Two major data releases this week will help determine whether that support can continue, especially as the economy enters what may become one of the defining themes of 2026: the race between inflation and productivity. At the center of this issue is a critical question: Can productivity grow fast enough to offset rising costs? More specifically, can output per worker increase at a pace that allows wages to rise without forcing prices higher? This week brings two important economic signals – Wednesday: the jobs report, delayed due to the temporary government shutdown; Friday: The Consumer Price Index (CPI), the key inflation reading Together, these reports will provide insight into both labor market strength and inflation pressure, and they will feed directly into market expectations for interest rates. One of the most important market indicators right now is the 10-year Treasury yield. Historically, the stock market has tended to hold up well as long as the 10-year yield remains below 4.5%. The yield is currently around 4.2%, and it has remained relatively stable in a tight range, below 4.5% and above 4%, for most of the past year. That range matters because the 10-year yield is highly sensitive to inflation expectations. If inflation spikes again, interest rates are likely to rise, and higher rates can quickly tighten financial conditions and pressure stock valuations. The path to keeping inflation stable depends heavily on productivity. When workers can produce more output per hour, it helps absorb higher wages without pushing prices higher. In that environment, inflation stays contained, interest rates remain more stable, and markets tend to respond positively. Ultimately, inflation, productivity, and interest rates are interconnected. If productivity growth can keep pace with rising labor costs, the economy can move into a positive reinforcing cycle. If not, inflation pressures can re-emerge and lead to higher rates, creating a more challenging environment for both economic growth and market performance. The market’s recent broadening is an encouraging sign, and this week’s data will help determine whether that trend has the foundation to continue as 2026 unfolds. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indic

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page breaks down how sports spending contributes to the U.S. economy, and the numbers may surprise you. Depending on how broadly it’s measured, sports account for roughly 1% to 2% of U.S. GDP, a footprint comparable to the entire American auto industry. From the Super Bowl and the Olympics to college athletics and global soccer, this episode highlights how sports have become a major, and fast-growing, economic force. Watch to learn more. Ashley Page, JD, MBA Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ashley Page here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Sports Spending and the GDP first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Federal Reserve Policy and the “Height Chart” Theory The Federal Reserve met last week and, as widely expected, made no changes to interest rates. The decision generated little market reaction, largely because economic conditions have not deteriorated enough to warrant rate cuts. Long-term rates have remained relatively stable, short-term rates have already adjusted downward, and overall economic growth continues at a pace similar to last year. With two meetings remaining before May, markets are not expecting significant action from the Fed in the near term. The more notable development came at the end of the week with the announcement that President Trump intends to nominate Kevin Warsh as the next Chair of the Federal Reserve. Warsh is a well-known and respected economist who previously served on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, becoming one of the youngest members in history at age 36. His public record suggests a more hawkish stance on monetary policy, with a strong emphasis on controlling inflation rather than pursuing easy money policies. Markets reacted quickly to the news. Interest rates moved higher, and precious metals experienced sharp declines, reflecting expectations that Warsh would favor tighter monetary discipline. While some investors were surprised by the direction of rates, history suggests the trajectory may be less mysterious than it seems. A tongue-in-cheek but intriguing chart highlights a correlation between the height of Federal Reserve Chairs and prevailing interest rate environments. From Paul Volcker’s era of high rates to the gradual declines under Alan Greenspan and Ben Bernanke, the zero-rate policies during Janet Yellen’s tenure, and the renewed tightening under Jerome Powell, the pattern has been remarkably consistent. Kevin Warsh appears to align closely with Powell in this framework, suggesting rates may remain near current levels. While clearly correlation, not causation, the chart offers a memorable way to think about where policy may be headed. The AI Bubble Question: Reality vs. Headlines Recent market volatility, including a sharp one-day decline of more than 10% in a major technology stock, has reignited concerns about a potential artificial intelligence bubble. Comparisons to the dot-com crash of the early 2000s have resurfaced, but the data tells a very different story. During the dot-com era, stock prices surged far ahead of underlying earnings. Valuations became detached from fundamentals, creating the conditions for a dramatic market correction. In contrast, today’s AI-driven market environment shows a much closer alignment between stock prices and forward earnings growth. Since 2020, equity valuations have largely been supported by real and measurable earnings expansion. While no investment theme is without risk, current market behavior does not reflect the kind of irrational exuberance that defined the late 1990s. One company’s short-term stock movement should not overshadow the broader fundamentals driving the sector. For long-term investors, the focus remains on earnings growth, balance sheets, and sustainable business models, not headlines or single-day market moves. Economic Strength, Productivity, and Inflation The broader economy continues to show signs of resilience, particularly in the area of productivity. U.S. productivity growth has been gaining momentum, with the most recent quarter approaching 5%, following another strong quarter near 4%. This improvement is especially notable as productivity gains have been elusive for much of the past decade. Artificial intelligence appears to be playing a meaningful role in this trend, supporting efficiency and output across industries. The interaction between productivity and inflation will be critical to watch going forward. While oil prices have begun to rise, a potential inflationary risk, other forces are helping keep inflation anchored. Labor costs, in particular, have remained relatively contained. Wage growth has been fairly flat, which can make the economy feel weaker for consumers still adjusting to residual inflation from 2021 and 2022. However, this same restraint has helped prevent inflation from reaccelerating. A simple way to view the current environment is through the balance of money and output. Inflation tends to rise when more money chases the same amount of goods. Today, money supply growth has slowed, and if productivity continues to improve, allowing the economy to produce more goods and services, price pressures may remain manageable. This dynamic will be central to the economic outlook in the months and years ahead. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent i

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ty Miller discusses Artificial Intelligence and how it is shaping Wall Street. AI is no longer a futuristic concept, as it’s already driving millions of trades each day by analyzing news, earnings calls, and even satellite data in real time to shape market decisions. From high-frequency trading to predictive analytics and risk monitoring, artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how Wall Street operates. While the opportunities are powerful, the risks and complexities make understanding this shift very important. Watch to learn more. Ty Miller Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post The Use of AI on Wall Street first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Broad Market Participation Signals Improving Market Health After several years of narrow leadership, early signs suggest the market is finally beginning to broaden. Market expansion, measured by how many stocks are participating in overall gains, is a critical component of a healthy and sustainable bull market. While major indexes may continue to hit new highs, the underlying strength of the market depends on participation beyond just a small group of dominant companies. Recent data shows meaningful improvement. Roughly 70% of S&P 500 stocks are now trading above their 200-day moving average, a level that reflects strong internal momentum. In most market environments, readings above 50% are considered healthy, making the current figure particularly encouraging. Small-cap stocks are also beginning to outperform, a development that often confirms a change in market trend. When smaller companies start to lead, it suggests that investor confidence is expanding beyond large-cap leaders. This type of rotation is especially important during an ongoing bull market. Another notable metric is the percentage of stocks outperforming the index itself. About 65% of S&P 500 companies are beating the index year-to-date. While the calendar has only just turned to January, this would be the second-highest reading in the past 50 years if it persists. Together, these indicators point toward the type of market expansion that supports long-term growth. Earnings Season Could Accelerate the Expansion While broader participation is already taking shape, corporate earnings may determine whether this trend continues. The market is currently in the heart of earnings season, and this week represents one of the busiest reporting periods of the year. On Wednesday alone, approximately 20% of the S&P 500 will release earnings results. In total, these companies represent about $8 trillion in market capitalization. To put that number in context, the entire Shanghai Stock Exchange, the largest stock exchange outside the United States, has a total market capitalization of just under $8 trillion. In effect, an amount comparable to China’s entire equity market will be reporting earnings in a single day. If companies outside the largest mega-cap stocks continue to deliver strong earnings, the market could see further upside driven by this broader base of performance. That would be a constructive setup early in the year, particularly given the long-held belief that January’s trends often set the tone for the rest of the year. Sustained earnings growth could help reinforce the current expansion, creating a stronger and more durable uptrend, one that provides investors with a wider range of opportunities as the year unfolds. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Market Expansion first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Bobby Norman breaks down the rising cost of eldercare and why it has become one of the most critical factors in long-term financial planning. With monthly costs ranging from roughly $6,000 for home care to nearly $10,000 for nursing homes, new data highlights how quickly these expenses can impact retirement savings. The real takeaway isn’t fear; it’s understanding the options and planning ahead to protect both assets and peace of mind. Watch to learn more. Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post The Rising Cost of Eldercare first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page breaks down how a growing majority of small businesses are now using AI and how adoption is accelerating faster than many expected. New surveys show usage jumping to 58%, with practical applications ranging from everyday communications and marketing to analytics, scheduling, and customer service. The real story isn’t hype; it’s how AI is steadily moving from large corporations into the heart of the small business economy. Watch to learn more. Ashley Page, JD, MBA Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ashley Page here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post The Impact of AI on Small Business first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Seasonality and the Midterm Election Effect Seasonality has long played a role in understanding market behavior, and historical trends can help inform portfolio strategy. January has often set the tone for the year ahead. Historically, a positive January has skewed returns higher over the subsequent quarter, half-year, and full year, while a negative January has tended to precede weaker performance. With the first part of January 2026 already complete, markets have gotten off to a respectable start. While this is no guarantee of future performance, history suggests it is a constructive signal. Another important factor this year is the midterm election cycle. Markets have often underperformed in January and February during midterm election years, driven largely by political uncertainty. Typically, there is an initial lift early in the year, followed by volatility as investors grapple with unknown policy outcomes. Monitoring how markets respond during this period will be critical in assessing how these early dynamics may influence the rest of 2026. Productivity as the Engine of Growth Recent economic data has provided a clearer picture of the economy’s underlying strength, particularly in the labor market and productivity trends. Employment growth has moderated after a prolonged period of strength, raising questions about whether the economy can continue to grow without a hot labor market. Gross domestic products are driven by two primary forces: how many people are working and how productive those workers are. While recent job gains, approximately 50,000 new jobs, reflect modest growth, wage data has been encouraging, with wages rising 3.8% year over year. The most notable development has been a sharp increase in productivity. Third-quarter productivity growth surged to an annualized rate of 4.9%, a significant and unexpected jump. This matters because productivity allows the economy to grow without fueling inflation. When productivity rises faster than wages, both labor and capital can benefit simultaneously. With wages up 3.8% and productivity up 4.9%, there is an implied expansion in profit margins, creating growth without upward pressure on prices. This dynamic represents an ideal balance, economic expansion that rewards workers while maintaining pricing stability. Upcoming inflation data, including CPI and PPI, will be closely watched to see whether this productivity-driven growth continues to flow through the broader economy. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post We’ll See… first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Bobby Norman breaks down the growing cybersecurity threats facing individuals and businesses, from phishing and ransomware to lesser-known attacks that can quietly compromise your data. He shares practical, client-tested strategies to protect your financial life, including stronger passwords, multi-factor authentication, and smart habits that reduce risk before problems arise. Don’t miss this important conversation on how a few proactive steps can help safeguard your identity, assets, and peace of mind. Watch to learn more. Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Online Best Practices first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Volatility, the Fed, and the Productivity Question The year 2026 is poised to be a major inflection point. While 2025 represented a transition phase, toward artificial intelligence adoption and hoped-for productivity gains, 2026 may be the year where outcomes must finally materialize. In many ways, it is a “prove it” year for markets and policy alike. One expected source of volatility is the political cycle. Historically, the second year of a presidential term has been the most volatile period in the market cycle. On average, it experiences deeper drawdowns, nearly 20%, but also stronger recoveries from those lows. While volatility itself is expected, its catalyst is often unpredictable, reinforcing the need for preparedness and flexibility. Another major transition involves the Federal Reserve. A new Fed Chair is expected to take the helm in 2026, and history shows that markets often test new leadership early. Previous Fed Chairs faced sharp drawdowns soon after assuming office, driven by inflation and interest rate concerns. This leadership change comes at a critical moment, as the economy attempts to move beyond the post-COVID imbalance of too much money chasing too few goods. A key metric to watch is the relationship between wages and essential living costs. While inflation pressures have eased since peaking in 2022, wages have yet to decisively outpace the rising cost of necessities such as food, energy, housing, and insurance. For meaningful progress, productivity must increase so that wage growth can exceed cost growth, a shift that would significantly ease the Fed’s policy dilemma. Adding another layer of complexity is the anticipated surge in tax refunds in early 2026. Due to tax legislation passed in 2025, refunds are expected to rise by an estimated 44%, injecting $150–$200 billion into the hands of consumers. Historically, American consumers tend to spend these funds, providing a near-term economic boost. Whether that spending fuels sustainable growth or reignites inflation remains one of the key unknowns policymakers will face. Earnings, Commodities, and Market Concentration As attention turns to investment strategy for 2026, three themes stand out: corporate profits, commodity prices, and market concentration. Corporate earnings remain a primary driver of equity market performance, and current indicators suggest continued strength. Investment in artificial intelligence, resilient consumer spending, and the potential for Federal Reserve rate cuts all support the outlook for sustained profit growth. If these trends continue, corporate earnings could remain a positive force for markets in the year ahead. Commodity prices, particularly gold, silver, and copper, represent another area of focus. Gold’s strong performance has been fueled by concerns over currency debasement, deglobalization, inflation pressures, and large fiscal deficits. However, renewed U.S. economic strength and strong GDP growth could slow the pace of rate cuts, potentially putting downward pressure on precious metals. Whether commodities can continue to surprise to the upside remains an open question. The third and perhaps most critical theme is market concentration. Today, the ten largest stocks account for roughly 41% of the S&P 500, with most deeply tied to artificial intelligence. This raises an important question for 2026: can AI-related investment spending continue at current levels, and will market leadership broaden? The outlook suggests that the simultaneous presence of fiscal, regulatory, and monetary stimulus could support broader earnings growth. A widening of market participation would be a healthier development for investors and could reduce the risks associated with excessive concentration. Energy Markets and an Unfolding Global Surprise One of the most unexpected developments heading into 2026 has emerged from Latin America, particularly Venezuela. Political unrest and potential leadership changes have introduced new uncertainty into global energy markets, making this an evolving situation that demands close attention. At the center of the discussion is the distinction between heavy crude and light crude oil. For decades, the U.S. relied heavily on imports of heavy crude from countries like Venezuela and Canada, which require specialized refining infrastructure. While domestic production of light crude has increased significantly, U.S. refining capacity remains well-suited for heavier grades. This imbalance has contributed to a growing spread between oil prices and gasoline prices. While oil prices have declined sharply, gasoline prices have fallen far less, largely due to refining constraints. A potential reintroduction of Venezuelan heavy crude into U.S. markets, if geopolitical restrictions ease, could help narrow this spread. Lower fuel costs would have meaningful implications for consumers and the broader economy, particularly by easing cost-of-living pressures that weigh heavily on household budgets. W

Closing Out 2025: Setting the Stage for 2026 As 2025 comes to a close, the economic landscape offers both reassurance and reason for vigilance as we look ahead to 2026. Inflation has been the defining theme of the year, and recent data suggests meaningful progress. The latest CPI reading for November showed inflation at 2.7% year-over-year, below expectations of 3.1%. While this data should be interpreted cautiously due to missing October inflation and unemployment figures, the broader takeaway is clear: inflation remains below 3% and is not rebounding aggressively, even amid ongoing tariff concerns. This marks a productive year in the fight against inflation. However, history suggests the story may not be over. Inflation has often moved in waves, with pauses followed by renewed surges. Current trends indicate we may be in one of those pause periods. Previous inflationary eras, such as those beginning in 1910, 1939, and 1972, saw inflation reaccelerate after similar lulls. One underappreciated factor bears close watching: money supply growth. Currently expanding at roughly 4.6%, money supply has historically been a leading indicator of renewed inflationary pressure. Should inflation move higher in 2026, it would likely remain a central driver of market behavior and Federal Reserve policy uncertainty. This is a dynamic that will continue to shape economic headlines and investment decision-making in the year ahead. Lower Gas Prices and a Tailwind for Holiday Travel One encouraging contributor to easing inflation is the recent decline in gas prices, welcome news during the busiest travel season of the year. AAA estimates that approximately 122.4 million Americans will drive more than 50 miles from home between now and year-end. On a typical day, the U.S. consumes about 376 million gallons of gasoline, a figure expected to rise significantly during this peak travel period. Even small changes in gas prices have an outsized economic impact. A 10-cent decrease at the pump translates into roughly $40 million in daily savings for the U.S. economy. Over the past year, gas prices have fallen about 10%, while oil has dropped more than 30%. This gap suggests gas prices may have further room to decline as they catch up with oil’s sustained downward trend. Lower fuel costs provide a dual benefit: easing inflationary pressure heading into 2026 and giving consumers a financial tailwind during the holiday shopping season. For households and the broader economy alike, this trend is a timely and positive development. Market Rotation and the Santa Claus Rally As the year winds down, attention often turns to the so-called “Santa Claus rally,” a seasonal market pattern that spans the final five trading days of the year and the first two trading days of the next. This rally does not begin until Christmas Eve, meaning expectations should remain measured until that window arrives. Historically, markets have tended to post gains during this short period, though outcomes are never guaranteed. Still, performance during these days is often viewed as an indicator heading into the new year. Beyond seasonal trends, market rotation has been a notable feature of recent months. While headline indexes may appear to have stalled in November and December, the underlying story is more constructive. The top-performing 10% of stocks from January through October, leaders for much of the year, have recently underperformed, while previously lagging segments have begun to outperform. This broadening of leadership is a hallmark of a healthier market. Recent milestones underscore this rotation. Bank of America reached an all-time high for the first time since 2006, and Cisco achieved a new high for the first time since 2000, nearly 25 years. These examples are not about individual stock recommendations and are about illustrating how leadership is spreading across sectors and styles, reinforcing the durability of the broader market environment. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predict

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Robert Moody breaks down the latest updates to 529 plans, including new tax benefits, scholarship withdrawal flexibility, and even the ability to roll unused funds into a beneficiary’s Roth IRA. These changes give families more control than ever over education and retirement planning, with several little-known rules that could make a major financial difference. Don’t miss this quick breakdown of what’s new, what’s changing, and how to make the most of your 529. Watch to learn more. Robert Moody, CFP®, CEPA® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Robert Moody here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post 529 Plans – Overview and Important Changes first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Corporate Earnings and a Broadening Market One of the most compelling themes as we transition from 2025 into 2026 is the continued strength of corporate earnings. Estimated 12-month S&P 500 operating margins have climbed to historically impressive levels, reinforcing the idea that Corporate America remains on solid financial footing. As has been noted, a recession accompanied by positive earnings growth would be unprecedented, and that matters. Strong earnings not only support near-term market stability but also create a longer runway for continued performance. Beyond earnings strength alone, another encouraging development is the broadening of market participation. Over the last several years, market returns have been dominated by a small group of large-cap technology stocks. That concentration has been a frequent concern for investors. Encouragingly, earnings growth among the remaining 493 companies in the S&P 500 is now expected to converge with that of the so-called “Magnificent Seven.” This shift suggests that market leadership may become more balanced in 2026. If that trend continues, it could represent one of the most important investment narratives of the coming year and a meaningful opportunity as portfolios are positioned for the future. The Federal Reserve and the Flow-Through to the Economy While earnings and market breadth tell one part of the story, monetary policy remains a critical variable. The Federal Reserve recently concluded its final meeting of the year with a 25-basis-point rate cut, placing the federal funds rate in a range of 3.5% to 3.75%. More significant than the cut itself was the language used by the Fed, signaling that rates are now within a plausible estimate of neutral. In practical terms, this suggests a likely pause in rate cuts in the near term. From our perspective, that pause is a positive development. It allows time for previously implemented cuts to work their way through the economy. Short-term rates affect savers, but long-term rates, where businesses and individuals borrow, are what truly drive economic activity. One area we are watching particularly closely is the spread between the 10-year Treasury and the 30-year mortgage rate. While the U.S. government may borrow near 4%, many individuals are still borrowing at rates above 6%, creating a wider-than-average spread. Historically, that spread averages closer to 1.77%. Even without dramatic declines in Treasury yields, a return to historical norms could significantly lower mortgage rates and materially improve affordability for borrowers. A stable Fed, combined with time for rate cuts to flow through to long-term borrowing costs, could provide meaningful relief to households and businesses alike. Importantly, if the economy remains strong, with healthy earnings and resilient markets, the Fed does not need to act aggressively. In that context, a pause becomes a signal of confidence rather than concern. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post We’ve Never Seen… first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

The Fed’s Crucial Role and What Comes Next The Federal Reserve continues to dominate market conversations, and for good reason. Each decision the Fed makes, particularly regarding interest rates, carries direct implications for markets, borrowing, saving, and overall economic momentum. This week’s meeting is no exception. The Fed is widely expected to cut interest rates by another 25 basis points, but the real story lies beyond the short-term benchmark rate. While the Fed controls the front end of the yield curve, long-term rates move largely on market forces. That distinction matters: savers benefit from high short-term yields, but it’s borrowers who depend on lower long-term rates. Recently, even as the Fed has cut rates, long-term yields have plateaued or drifted higher, reducing the intended impact of monetary easing. Whether long-term rates follow this next cut will be a critical signal for what comes next. This meeting also arrives at a transitional moment. It is likely the final meeting before a new Federal Reserve Chair is announced, with expectations centered around Kevin Hassett, though, as always, presidential decisions remain unpredictable. By the next meeting in late January, Chair Powell will be operating as a lame-duck leader, with his successor already named. Additionally, the Fed has recently halted its balance-sheet reduction, introducing more uncertainty into how they approach liquidity and money supply management going forward. With so many moving parts, rate cuts, balance sheet policy, and leadership changes, this week’s meeting is likely to spark notable market reaction. Global Equity Trends Strengthen the Outlook Alongside improving U.S. economic fundamentals, such as strong corporate earnings, moderating rates, and steady consumer resilience, global equity markets have been quietly building positive momentum. Nearly every major global index has shifted into a positive trend, a significant development after years of mixed or uneven global performance. Most global markets made this turn in 2025, signaling that equity strength is no longer isolated to the U.S. but is broadening worldwide. This synchronized uptrend is a constructive sign for investors and supports a healthier market environment heading into 2026. With global momentum now aligning with domestic fundamentals, the market backdrop continues to strengthen on multiple fronts. The Truth Behind Today’s AI Bubble Fears Concerns about a potential AI-driven market bubble have become increasingly common, both in financial news and in client conversations. However, current data suggests the sector’s growth is not speculative in the way many fear. Technology stocks have indeed rallied, but importantly, their valuations have not expanded beyond what earnings justify. Year-to-date, there has been no multiple expansion in the technology sector, meaning prices have risen because profits have risen, not because investors are blindly paying more for the same fundamentals. A comparison of current valuations to those seen during the dot-com bubble further underscores the difference. In March 2000, many companies traded at 100–150 times forward earnings. Today, nearly all major technology companies remain under 50 times earnings. While not “cheap,” these valuations are grounded in real profitability and genuine business strength. The landscape is nowhere near the speculative extremes of 2000. In short, while AI is a powerful long-term theme, the data does not support the idea that markets have entered an AI bubble, at least not yet. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Fed Up with the Fed and AI first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page breaks down why America’s manufacturing sector has slipped from 25% of the GDP in the 1950s to just 9.7% today and why restoring it could be transformative. He highlights how boosting manufacturing back to even 15% could strengthen the middle class, enhance national security, fuel innovation, and revitalize communities across the country. Tune in to discover why a manufacturing revival could reshape our economy and create new opportunities for communities nationwide. Watch to learn more. Ashley Page, JD, MBA Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ashley Page here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Manufacturing and the US GDP first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Market Volatility, Seasonal Strength, and Key Economic Signals After an uptick in volatility throughout November, attention is now turning to December to determine whether seasonal strength can help stabilize or lift the markets. Historically, Thanksgiving week has marked the beginning of one of the strongest seasonal periods of the year. Given the market’s uneasiness in recent weeks, this timing is especially significant. One of the most closely watched developments is the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting. Recent labor market weakness has increased the likelihood of a rate cut, with current expectations hovering around an 80% probability. If the Fed moves forward with cuts, small-cap stocks could see renewed momentum. These companies have traditionally benefited the most following rate reductions, and a broadening of market performance beyond large-cap names would be a welcome shift. Higher interest rates have weighed heavily on small-cap companies in recent years, largely because their debt structures tend to be shorter-term and more sensitive to rate fluctuations. In contrast, large-cap companies typically hold longer-dated debt, making interest expense a smaller factor in their overall performance. Additional rate cuts would therefore be a meaningful tailwind for smaller companies, an important item on this year’s holiday market wish list. Another key factor being monitored is consumer confidence. Recent readings have fallen short of expectations, reaching their lowest level since the tariff-related declines in early spring. Cost pressures, affordability concerns, and rising layoff announcements have all contributed to weaker sentiment. Surprisingly, however, corporate profitability has held up, with earnings growth continuing to diverge from consumer mood. The central question heading into 2026 is whether strong earnings can continue to support stock prices if consumer spending moderates. December will be a critical month for understanding the financial health of consumers during the holiday season and determining whether earnings expectations should be adjusted as the new year approaches. A variety of indicators, from market performance to rate decisions to consumer behavior, will help shape the outlook for 2026. Strengthening Communication Through Technology and Social Media With the holiday season being one of the busiest times of the year, effective communication becomes especially important. A key objective is to ensure clients and colleagues receive timely, accessible updates in ways that suit their preferences. To support this goal, content is shared across multiple platforms and formats, ranging from social media to email to the firm’s expanding series of podcasts and digital insights. Efforts continue to grow across channels including Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube. These platforms allow for real-time outreach and make it easy for clients, colleagues, and followers to stay connected. The engagement and feedback received across these channels help guide future topics and ensure the content remains relevant and valuable./span> Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Holiday Market Wishlist first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

The Cost of Thanksgiving Comes Down Each year, the American Farm Bureau releases an estimate of what it costs to feed a family of ten for Thanksgiving, a lighthearted but useful snapshot of price trends for holiday staples. The latest estimate projects an average meal cost of $55.18, which is 5% lower than last year and well below the record high of $64.05 set in 2022. After several years of elevated prices, the continued decline offers consumers much-needed relief during the holiday season. However, the price movement isn’t uniform across the Thanksgiving table. Turkey leads the price drop, falling 16% to an average cost of $1.34 per pound. On the other end of the spectrum, weather disruptions have sent sweet potato prices soaring 37%, and even the often-neglected vegetable tray, the one that tends to be forgotten at many gatherings, is up a surprising 61% year-over-year. While this year’s data suggests the holiday feast is becoming more affordable overall, the mix of rising and falling costs highlights how specific factors continue to influence individual food categories. With three consecutive years of declining Thanksgiving costs, this trend reflects encouraging movement in food inflation. For families and friends preparing to celebrate together, the holiday table may look a little less expensive this year, even if it still pays to favor turkey over vegetables. Can AI Investments Deliver Real Productivity? While conversations around artificial intelligence may not seem like typical Thanksgiving fare, the recent market reaction to NVIDIA’s earnings highlights the broader impact of technology investment across the U.S. economy. One of the most notable developments is the rapid expansion of data center construction, a direct byproduct of the AI boom. Since 2020, data center development has surged dramatically, even as general office construction has sharply declined. In fact, data center spending is on track to surpass traditional office building for the first time. This shift is more than a construction trend; it reflects an open question that will shape corporate strategy and economic growth: Will heavy AI-related spending actually boost productivity? As labor supply tightens and payroll growth is expected to slow into 2025, the economy will rely more heavily on efficiency improvements to support expansion. Yet, recent data shows underwhelming productivity gains, raising concerns about whether technology investments are translating into meaningful output. As the U.S. moves toward 2026, much of the market’s confidence hinges on whether AI-driven advancements begin delivering tangible benefits to businesses. The scale of investment has been substantial; what remains to be seen is whether it will pay off through faster, smarter, more productive operations across corporate America. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Thanksgiving Table Topics first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

This week on Innovation Mavericks, we sat down with Jack Hernig, a standout leader known for bold innovation and creative strategy in the entrepreneurial world. From launching a business to future-focused planning and sharpening problem-solving skills, Jack reveals what it really takes to compete differently. His maverick mindset offers business owners and leaders a roadmap to break the mold and set themselves apart. Watch to learn more. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Innovation Starts with a Bold Mindset: Insights with Jack Hernig first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Corporate Earnings: A Powerful Undercurrent Despite recent worries, rising credit card delinquencies, increases in announced layoffs, and other soft spots across the economy, corporate earnings continue to deliver strong support for equity markets. In the third quarter, 82% of S&P 500 companies surpassed earnings expectations, handily beating the four-year average of 76.3%. Year-over-year earnings growth for the index reached 13.1% as of November 7th, on pace to mark the fourth consecutive quarter of double-digit earnings expansion. With analysts expecting record earnings in the coming quarters, valuation questions naturally follow. The S&P 500’s forward price-to-earnings ratio stood at 23.1 in late October, well above the 10-year average of 18.6. Whether these valuations represent overpricing or simply reflect confidence in consistent earnings growth remains an essential question as investors assess market durability. For now, strong fundamentals continue to underpin equity performance and will remain a critical factor to watch moving into the fourth quarter./span> Technical Signals: A Market Building Its Floor While earnings paint the fundamental picture, technical analysis helps interpret how investors are reacting in real time. The recent movement of the S&P 500 offers several key insights into short-term market behavior. A central indicator is the 50-day moving average, which represents the average entry point of recent buyers. Throughout the year, the index has repeatedly dipped to this level and bounced higher. These rebounds suggest that investors reaching breakeven levels are choosing to reinvest rather than exit, reinforcing confidence and helping form a “floor” in the market. The primary support level being monitored sits at 6,646 on the S&P 500. Should the index fall below that mark, the next significant support level appears near 6,344. These levels are not meant as day-trading signals, but rather as structural indicators of investor sentiment. When combined with robust earnings growth, these technical patterns suggest that the market is forming a stable foundation heading into year-end—one supported by both improving fundamentals and strengthening investor conviction. Government Policy & Business Confidence: Conditions Set for 2026 With the longest government shutdown in U.S. history now concluded, attention has shifted to broader economic conditions and what lies ahead in 2026. A combination of business and consumer tax cuts is expected to inject roughly $285 billion of additional stimulus into the economy that year. At the same time, a more accommodative Federal Reserve, characterized by rate cuts and an end-to-balance-sheet contraction, adds further tailwinds. Even during the shutdown, third-party surveys provided meaningful insights into executive sentiment. CEO confidence, measured by the Chief Executive Group, rose sharply in early November. Executives reported signs of strengthening demand, renewed capital projects, easing inflation pressures, and more clarity on tariffs. As confidence improves, companies are signaling plans to increase hiring, expand revenue, and pursue strategic growth initiatives in the coming 12 months. Deal-making activity reflects this shift in tone. Mergers and acquisitions are gaining steam, supported by a friendlier regulatory backdrop. Initial public offerings, which nearly disappeared in 2022 and remained sluggish through 2023, are also showing signs of revival as market conditions turn more favorable. These developments suggest a growing willingness among corporate leaders to deploy capital and pursue long-term opportunities, an encouraging sign for economic momentum heading into 2026. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment adv

This week on Innovation Mavericks, we sat down with Elliott Davis, Owner and Operator of Automatic Audio Video, to explore what it really takes to build a business at the cutting edge of audio and video technology. From identifying a simple need, “a guy who can make it all work,” to creating a thriving company that simplifies home tech for everyone, Elliott’s story is all about turning innovation into impact. Watch to learn more. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Innovation Meets Automation: Insights with Elliott Davis first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Understanding the Shutdown’s Economic Impact The surprise agreement over the weekend marks significant progress toward ending the shutdown. Lawmakers have reached the 60-vote threshold in the Senate to move forward with a “minibus” spending bill, which funds portions of the government, including the Department of Agriculture and food assistance programs, through September 30, the end of the federal fiscal year. The remaining sections of the budget will be funded through January 30 of next year, meaning another round of negotiations will likely resume in early 2026. This deal came together after eight Democratic senators joined Republicans to push forward the effort to reopen the government. While past shutdowns haven’t always had major effects on markets, this one had begun to weigh on economic activity. Consumer spending in travel and leisure started to decline, particularly ahead of the busy Thanksgiving travel period. One key data point that illustrates the shutdown’s economic drag is the U.S. Treasury General Account, effectively the government’s savings account. During the shutdown, the government continued to collect taxes and borrow money, but payments and spending were halted. As a result, the Treasury’s balance swelled from $819 billion to $953 billion, removing roughly $134 billion from circulation in the economy. This dynamic created a liquidity squeeze, slowing overall economic activity. With the shutdown now ending, those funds should begin flowing back into the economy, a trend our team will be watching closely in the weeks ahead. A Spike in Layoffs Raises Concern While the shutdown dominated headlines, another development emerged last week that investors should pay close attention to: a sharp increase in corporate layoffs. According to a report from consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas, U.S. companies announced 153,000 job cuts in October, nearly triple the 54,000 reported in September. This spike marked the worst October for layoffs in more than two decades and the highest single-month total for the fourth quarter since 2008. Companies cited both cost-cutting measures and the adoption of artificial intelligence as primary reasons for workforce reductions. Although official Labor Department data has been delayed by the shutdown, private-sector reports like this one give early signals about labor market health. A weakening job market often leads to slower consumer spending, which can in turn pressure corporate earnings, and ultimately, stock prices. As a result, Fi Plan Partners is watching employment data closely for signs of further deterioration or stabilization in the months ahead. How Markets Respond After Shutdowns It’s worth revisiting the underlying cause of this record-long shutdown: a dispute over Affordable Care Act subsidies. The cost of extending these subsidies was estimated at $30 billion for one year, but as the shutdown dragged on, federal employees stood to lose an estimated $252 billion in wages if it continued for a full year. The imbalance between political gridlock and real economic consequences ultimately helped drive both parties toward compromise. Looking forward, how do markets typically react once a shutdown ends? Historical data provides some encouragement. In most prior cases, the S&P 500 has posted positive returns in the months following the reopening of the government. One year after past shutdowns, the market has been higher 88% of the time, with an average gain of just over 15%. While past performance is no guarantee of future results, history suggests that markets often rebound once the uncertainty of a shutdown is removed, particularly if underlying fundamentals, such as corporate earnings, remain strong. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered i

AI is changing the game, and this week on Innovation Mavericks, Greg Powell sits down with Magna5’s Justin Cameron, Jacob Bever, and Jeff Jablonski to explore how businesses are turning AI into real-world results. From driving team adoption to keeping the conversation moving in a rapidly evolving landscape, their insights are not to be missed. As a trusted IT partner, Magna5 supports over 700 SMB, mid-market, and enterprise clients with cybersecurity, managed IT, compliance, cloud hosting, AI solutions, consulting, and cutting-edge technology services. Tune in for a conversation that explores the real-world impact of AI and what the future may hold. Watch to learn more. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post How Smart Businesses are Using AI to Level Up: Insights with Magna5 first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Trey Booth talks through why innovation can be disruptive, but it’s also a long-term engine for job creation. While new technologies can feel threatening in the moment, history shows they consistently spark new industries, new opportunities, and greater economic growth than they displace. Tune in to learn how creative destruction drives progress and what it means for investors positioning for the future. Watch to learn more. Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Creative Destruction first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Credit Cards Flash a Warning Recent data highlights potential strain within the consumer sector. Three of the eight leading economic indicators we monitor are signaling concern, and one area drawing particular attention is credit card delinquencies. The percentage of Americans delinquent by 90 days or more has surpassed 12 percent, a level not seen since the Great Financial Crisis in 2009. Consumers have been a major engine for economic growth, supported by job strength and rising incomes. However, the question now is whether that momentum has come at the cost of greater debt stress. Rising delinquencies paired with potential increases in layoffs could signal pressure ahead. While layoff announcements surged earlier this year and have since stabilized, the underlying trend will be watched closely. Should credit challenges coincide with renewed job losses, the combination could pose a meaningful headwind for both the economy and the markets. A Shift Toward Monetary Easing On the policy front, the Federal Reserve has taken a significant step by preparing to end quantitative tightening on December 1. Since 2022, the Fed has reduced its balance sheet by allowing bonds to roll off without reinvestment. As this reverses, maturing bonds will once again be reinvested, adding liquidity back into the system. While not framed as a formal rate cut, the liquidity impact of this change is roughly equivalent to a 25-basis-point easing move. The shift marks a meaningful pivot from the aggressive tightening cycle aimed at battling inflation. Additionally, consumers are expected to feel a positive boost from tax policy. Average tax refunds for 2026 are estimated to be approximately $1,000 higher per filer than in 2025, a roughly 43 percent increase and the largest jump since the post-COVID period. These factors may help offset the rising credit stress noted earlier, offering a counterweight of monetary support and consumer stimulus. Confidence from Corporate Performance Alongside policy decisions, financial markets are navigating a temporary gap in federal economic reporting due to a government shutdown. While this limits macro data visibility, clarity remains strong at the corporate level. Roughly 62 percent of S&P 500 companies have reported third-quarter earnings, with growth exceeding expectations. Instead of the anticipated 9-10 percent earnings increase, companies are delivering above 14 percent growth. Ten of the eleven major sectors are outperforming forecasts, underscoring resilience across the business landscape. This solid corporate performance contrasts with mixed macroeconomic headlines and uncertainty about future Federal Reserve decisions. While Fed Chair Jerome Powell has noted that policy direction remains uncertain given the lack of current government data, the strength in corporate fundamentals provides a constructive backdrop for the broader economy and markets heading into 2026. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post How About Those Credit Cards? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

In our newest episode of Innovation Mavericks, Greg Powell sits down with Pam Smith, owner of Classic Travel by Pam, recently named Hoover’s Best Travel Agency and Best Travel Agent 2025. Pam shares how she turns travel planning into an art form, taking the stress out of every trip while delivering unforgettable, perfectly tailored experiences for her clients. Tune in to hear her secrets for seamless travel, expert planning, and why innovation matters in this industry. Watch to learn more. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post The Art of Effortless Travel: Insights from Classic Travel by Pam first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Tracking Economic Health: The Recession Checklist With headlines focused on government shutdowns, slowing consumer spending, and questions about the direction of the economy, now is the perfect time to revisit our recession checklist, an essential tool we use weekly to evaluate the economy’s health. This checklist functions like a diagnostic report, monitoring key leading indicators such as GDP growth, employment trends, consumer confidence, and manufacturing activity. Currently, three of the eight indicators we track are signaling caution: housing, consumer expectations, and manufacturing. Housing permits have lost momentum amid elevated rates, though we expect improvement as rates ease. Consumer expectations have weakened due to political uncertainty and stubborn inflation, while manufacturing continues to be pressured by ongoing tariff issues. Even so, the broader data remains resilient. Corporate earnings continue to come in strong, a crucial factor supporting equity markets. As we navigate these mixed signals, our focus remains on identifying whether economic softness is temporary or the start of a longer trend. Reading the Fed’s Next Move As the Federal Reserve prepares to meet this week, markets seem surprisingly quiet. That silence itself is worth noting, historically, it’s often the events investors aren’t watching that deliver the biggest surprises. We expect the Fed to announce a 25-basis-point rate cut. However, the more important question is what happens next. When the Fed adjusts rates, it’s setting the price of time, balancing what savers earn and what borrowers pay. Last year, a rate cut hurt savers without helping borrowers, as long-term rates rose. This year, we’re beginning to see improvement: mortgage rates and 10-year Treasury yields have both edged lower, signaling better alignment between short- and long-term rates. For the economy to benefit, this downward movement must continue. Lower long-term rates stimulate borrowing, business investment, and housing, key engines of growth. As we monitor the Fed’s actions, our checklist ensures we’re watching not just policy decisions, but their ripple effects across savings, lending, and economic expansion. The Federal Deficit and Quantitative Tightening Another important factor shaping the economic outlook is the federal deficit. The government’s fiscal year recently closed on September 30, and the numbers show a deficit of $1.775 trillion, still enormous, but slightly improved. The figure is $41 billion smaller than last year’s deficit and $34 billion lower than prior projections. While the improvement is incremental, progress is progress. Looking ahead, tax policy changes and improved revenue collection could help narrow the gap further over the next several years. In addition to fiscal policy, we’re closely watching the Federal Reserve’s approach to quantitative tightening (QT), the process of reducing its balance sheet by allowing bonds to mature without reinvestment. If the Fed signals a slowdown or end to QT, that could inject more liquidity into the financial system, a historically positive development for equity markets. As we move into the final quarter of the year, we’ll be paying close attention not just to rate decisions, but also to balance sheet policy, both critical to market stability heading into 2026. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post These Checklists Don’t Lie first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

In this week’s episode of Innovation Mavericks, Greg Powell sits down with John Bentley, founder of Power 2 Transform, to explore how true leadership begins with self-leadership. After 21 years in the Air Force and a powerful personal journey of renewal, John shares how discipline, accountability, and emotional awareness can unlock both personal and organizational success. He also opens up about the foundation he launched in memory of his daughter and his upcoming book, I Lead Me, focused on helping others realize their potential. Don’t miss this moving conversation about resilience, growth, and what it really means to lead yourself so you can lead others. Watch to learn more. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Discovering How to Lead Yourself in Order to Lead Others: Insights with John Bentley first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Corporate Profit Margins and Market Valuations In recent months, market valuations have drawn renewed attention as investors question whether current price levels are sustainable. A closer look, however, reveals that strong corporate profitability continues to support elevated valuations, particularly in the S&P 500, where profit margins remain near all-time highs. The technology sector now represents a larger share of the S&P 500 than at any point in history. This shift, combined with robust earnings performance, helps justify today’s higher valuation metrics. Historically, there has been a positive correlation between profit margins and the index’s price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio. When profit margins rise, valuations tend to follow. Despite economic headwinds and investor concerns about stretched valuations, corporate America remains fundamentally healthy. Strong profit margins signal that companies are efficiently managing costs and generating solid earnings, which in turn support dividend growth and shareholder value. As third-quarter earnings season unfolds, early reports continue to reinforce this positive trend. Tariffs and the Road Ahead While profits are buoying the market, another force continues to stir uncertainty: tariffs. In early November, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments that could shape how tariffs are implemented in the future. Importantly, this case does not determine whether tariffs can exist, but rather how they are applied under existing law. Lower courts, including the Court of International Trade and the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, have previously ruled against the current administration’s implementation of tariffs. The Supreme Court’s upcoming review will focus on whether the current approach exceeds executive authority. A final decision likely won’t arrive until the first quarter of next year. If the Court rules that the administration has overstepped, temporary measures under “Section 122” could be enacted, allowing tariffs up to 15% for about 150 days, while more permanent rules are developed under “Section 301.” Unlike Section 122, Section 301 has no maximum rate and could reestablish tariff levels closer to where they stand today. The implications for global trade are significant. A short-term dip in tariff revenue, from roughly $376 billion to $285 billion, would represent a brief adjustment period while longer-term policies are crafted. However, the broader concern is not about specific product categories like semiconductors or automobiles, but about the overarching framework of tariff authority itself. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Profits and Tariffs: A Deeper Dive first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Understanding Market Valuations Recent surveys indicate that 91% of fund managers believe U.S. stocks are overvalued, while emerging markets are considered undervalued. Historically, market pullbacks often occur when investors are least expecting them, rather than when caution is high. Significant changes in market composition have contributed to elevated valuation multiples. Technology companies now represent approximately 25% or more of the S&P 500, compared to just 10% in the 1970s. Technology companies typically experience faster growth and trade at higher price-to-earnings multiples, while sectors such as consumer staples, energy, and utilities have declined in index representation. This structural shift helps explain why elevated market multiples have persisted for longer periods in the current market environment. An important metric for evaluating market health is the performance of consumer discretionary stocks relative to consumer staples. In a strong bull market, discretionary spending should rise faster than staples, reflecting higher consumer confidence and excess income. Despite recent minor pullbacks, this relationship has remained strong, providing insight into overall market valuation trends. The Role of Dividends in Investing Dividends continue to be one of the most efficient ways for companies to return capital to shareholders and are a significant contributor to total investment returns. Out of the 503 companies in the S&P 500, 407 reported distributing cash dividends to shareholders as of October 7, 2025. Over the long term, dividends have accounted for 36.7% of total returns in the S&P 500 since 1928, highlighting their importance in wealth accumulation. Dividend payments also serve as indicators of corporate health. Through the end of September 2025, only seven dividend cuts and one suspension were reported, compared with 11 cuts and two suspensions in the same period the previous year. Dividends can also act as an effective hedge against inflation: while the Consumer Price Index increased by 35.9% over the past decade, total dividends paid by index stocks grew by 80.9% during the same period. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Market Overvalued? Not so fast… first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Momentum Carries into October September is typically known as a difficult month for equities, yet this year it defied that reputation. The broader market ended the month up 3.1%, supported by strong earnings momentum, a resilient economy, and renewed optimism around the Federal Reserve’s rate-cutting cycle. The ongoing surge in artificial intelligence investments also continues to be a powerful catalyst for growth. Historically, October has marked the beginning of one of the best three-month stretches for equities. Since 1950, the S&P 500 has averaged a 4.2% gain from October through December, with positive returns in 80% of those periods. November through January also tends to perform well. While these seasonal patterns are encouraging, it’s important to remember that market performance is ultimately driven by current fundamentals, corporate earnings, policy decisions, and global developments. For now, the data shows strength heading into what is typically one of the market’s most favorable windows. Earnings Season Takes the Stage As the fourth quarter begins, all eyes turn to third-quarter earnings. Current expectations call for nearly 7% growth in S&P 500 earnings, a strong figure that could support continued market gains if companies deliver on it. Two sectors stand out this season: financials and utilities. Financial companies are projected to grow earnings by almost 9%, and much of the focus will be on their commentary around compliance costs. Despite talk of deregulation, few measurable changes have occurred, so investors will be watching to see whether lower compliance expenses begin to show up in reports. Meanwhile, utilities, traditionally a slow-growth sector, are expected to post an impressive 9.7% earnings increase. That surge is largely driven by soaring demand for electricity tied to data centers and AI infrastructure. In Virginia alone, roughly 40% of all electricity consumption now goes to data centers. As these companies navigate growing energy demands, the key question will be how they manage costs so that higher usage from large-scale consumers doesn’t overly impact residential customers. Both sectors are worth watching closely, not just for their immediate results, but for the forward-looking strategies they outline to sustain growth into 2026. Government Shutdown Adds Data Gaps The recently announced government shutdown adds a new layer of uncertainty. While it’s not expected to have a major long-term economic impact, it does create short-term data gaps. Key government reports, such as employment figures and wage data, won’t be released until operations resume, leaving markets with less real-time insight into economic conditions. The latest available labor data suggests that job openings and unemployment are roughly balanced, indicating a stable employment environment. Hiring and layoffs appear to have slowed, suggesting companies are content with current staffing levels. However, once the shutdown ends, there could be temporary distortions in the data. During the 2013 shutdown, some government workers were classified as unemployed despite being paid later for the furlough period. A similar classification could lead to a short-term spike in unemployment figures when new data is released. Investors should be cautious not to overreact; such increases are likely statistical artifacts rather than signs of true weakness. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post October Markets: Trick or Treat? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Did you know Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) allow contributions to bypass payroll, federal, and state taxes. Watch this week’s Educational Insights episode as Mark Hume outlines how HSAs work, who is eligible, and why they are sometimes referred to as offering a “triple tax advantage.” Watch to learn more. Mark Hume, CFP® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Mark Hume here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post The Triple Tax Advantage of an HSA first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Housing’s Key Role in the Economy Housing remains one of the most significant drivers of the U.S. economy, representing roughly 18% of GDP and more than one-third of consumer spending. Because of this outsized impact, it also serves as a critical indicator of economic activity and future trends. Recent Federal Reserve rate cuts have prompted questions about whether housing affordability may improve. Signs of a potential turning point are already emerging: new U.S. home sales have spiked while new home prices have trended lower. Lower prices and lower rates are stimulating activity, a positive development for both the housing market and the broader economy. Monitoring this trend throughout the rest of 2025 will be essential. Government Shutdown and Rate Cuts While the housing data is encouraging, potential headwinds remain. Congressional leaders are working to avoid a government shutdown, and although history shows such events have little lasting impact on GDP or markets, they can disrupt the flow of government-produced economic data. This disruption matters because the Federal Reserve has become highly data-dependent. For instance, a key jobs report scheduled for release may be delayed if a shutdown occurs. Without timely data, the Fed’s ability to gauge the economy, and determine whether further rate cuts are needed, becomes more difficult. Recent rate moves illustrate this uncertainty. Leading up to the Fed’s latest meeting, both 10-year Treasury yields and 30-year mortgage rates were falling. After the rate cut, they flattened and even edged higher. While not as dramatic as last year’s spike, the lack of continued downward movement raises questions about the trajectory of borrowing costs, and by extension, housing affordability and federal debt refinancing. The Strength of the U.S. Consumer Despite policy uncertainty, the American consumer continues to show resilience. The latest personal income and consumption report revealed that personal income rose 0.4% in August while spending climbed 0.6%, both exceeding expectations and building on strong June and July data. On a year-over-year basis, personal income is up over 5% and spending more than 5.5%, outpacing inflation running near 2.7%. This strength in household income and spending, which together account for about 70% of the U.S. economy, underscores a confident consumer base fueling growth. This momentum is especially important heading into the final quarter of 2025, when holiday shopping often sets the tone for broader economic activity. Maintaining consumer confidence will be key to sustaining expansion. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Full House first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

We are thrilled to welcome Lexie Watts to the Fi Plan Partners team as our new Marketing Manager. In this episode of Team Strategies, she sits down with our President and CEO, Greg Powell, and our COO, Felicia Ludlum, to discuss her passion for using marketing to elevate the client experience and her vision amplifying the Fi Plan Partners brand. Lexie brings a desire for clear, impactful communication and a people-first approach to strategy, helping elevate the client experience across every platform. Watch to learn more. Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Felicia Ludlum Chief Operating Officer Email Felicia Ludlum here Lexie Watts Marketing Manager Email Lexie Watts here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Introducing our New Marketing Manager first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Navigating Today’s Bull Market The current bull market, which began on October 12, 2022, has now run for 34 months, well below the historical average of 59 months for bull markets since 1928. Although it may feel extended, the data suggests it is still relatively young compared to past cycles and has not yet delivered the triple-digit returns seen in some previous runs. Bull markets are periods characterized by rising prices and investor optimism, typically marked by gains of 20% or more. Historically, these markets must navigate a tug-of-war between positive developments, such as strong corporate earnings, solid consumer spending, and potential rate cuts, and headwinds like tariff concerns and valuation pressures. While there are no guarantees in investing, history indicates that bull markets can persist even amid uncertainty. Seasonal Trends and “966 Days” September has historically been the weakest month for the stock market. However, when September finishes positive, as it has this year, the fourth quarter of the S&P 500 has historically posted average gains of just over 4%, roughly triple the return seen in typical Septembers. While past performance does not guarantee future results, this seasonal trend suggests a constructive outlook for the remainder of the year. Momentum, however, has cooled somewhat. Only about 14% of stocks are currently above their 20-day highs, signaling some consolidation even as the S&P remains in an upward trend. Markets can pause for breath even in strong bull cycles before moving higher. The “966 days” headline underscores a milestone: the Russell 2000 small-cap index recently recorded its first all-time high in 966 days, the third longest gap on record. This marks a key moment in market rotation, as small-cap stocks rejoin the broader bull market. One catalyst has been lower interest expenses following a recent Federal Reserve rate cut, which typically benefits smaller companies that face less favorable credit terms than large-cap firms. The Power of Small Caps Many of today’s market leaders, Apple, Microsoft, Walmart, Amazon, once traded as small-cap stocks. Watching the performance of this segment offers insights into potential future leaders and acquisition targets. With small caps now showing renewed strength, investors gain another encouraging signal for market breadth heading into the fourth quarter.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post 966 Days first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Market ups and downs don’t cancel each other out the way you might think. Watch this week’s Educational Insights episode as Trey Booth explains the “hidden tax” of volatility and why focusing on downside protection can make a major difference in your long-term returns. Watch to learn more.   Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Hidden Tax of Market Volatility first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

The Federal Reserve’s Decision and Market Impact The Federal Reserve is scheduled to meet on September 16–17, with markets largely expecting a 25-basis-point rate cut. While the size of the cut may already be priced in, the real question is how markets will respond afterward. Two areas are especially important: Long-term interest rates: The Fed directly controls short-term rates but yields on 10- and 30-year Treasuries and mortgage rates are set by the broader market. Last year, when the Fed cut rates by 50 basis points in September, long-term rates unexpectedly rose. For monetary easing to stimulate the economy, long-term rates also need to move lower. Early signs of declining long-term rates are emerging ahead of this meeting, and their follow-through will be critical. Financial sector performance: This is only the third time in history the Fed has cut rates while financial stocks remained near highs. In past cycles, rate cuts typically came after financial stocks had already sold off. The last time rate cuts coincided with a strong financial sector, 1992, 1995 and 1996, markets remained resilient and performed well. Monitoring both long-term rates and the financial sector will indicate whether today’s environment resembles those mid-90s scenarios. Government Shutdown Risk and Market Concentration Beyond monetary policy, the probability of a government shutdown on October 1 has risen sharply, from about 35% in June to roughly 73% today, according to prediction markets. Yet historical data show that shutdowns have had little measurable effect on GDP growth or stock market performance, either during the event or in the months immediately after. Another frequently discussed theme is the concentration of large-cap stocks in the U.S. market. The top 10 U.S. stocks currently make up about 38% of the market index. Although that figure may sound high, it is far lower than in many other countries: Taiwan and Switzerland both exceed 70%, and Australia and Germany are above 60%. The U.S. ranks near the bottom among major markets for index concentration, just above Japan, offering important context when evaluating concentration risk.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Fed Meeting? Government Shutdown? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Falling Rates and Market Implications Recent jobs data came in weaker than expected, which pushed long-term interest rates lower. The 10-year Treasury yield dropped from around 4.3% to below 4.1%, a significant move that reflects market forces rather than direct Federal Reserve action. This decline is important because most businesses and households rely on long-term borrowing. When long-term rates fall, mortgages and housing markets can benefit, creating positive momentum for the broader economy. In contrast, last year when the Fed cut rates, long-term yields rose, limiting the intended economic boost. Markets are now pricing in two to three potential rate cuts before year-end. However, this outlook is highly dependent on upcoming data, particularly the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI). The Fed’s dual mandate, promoting full employment and keeping inflation under control, creates a balancing act. Weak jobs data supports cutting rates, but stubbornly high inflation could limit the Fed’s flexibility. The results of this week’s economic reports will be crucial in determining whether falling yields have staying power. September Market Seasonality September is historically considered the most challenging month for market performance. Since 1950, average returns in September have been negative more than half the time. However, when markets enter September trading above their 200-day moving average, as they are today, the picture looks much brighter. In those instances, the S&P 500 has historically averaged a 1.3% gain in September and posted positive returns more than 60% of the time. With markets currently above their long-term moving average, combined with falling rates and steady earnings growth, there is reason to believe this September could defy the negative seasonal trend. Consumer Spending Trends Consumer spending remains a critical driver of the U.S. economy, accounting for roughly 70% of GDP. Back-to-school shopping provided encouraging signs, with spending up 2.5% year-over-year positive indicator heading into the holiday season. That said, not all data points are optimistic. A recent PwC survey of 4,000 U.S. consumers indicated that holiday spending may fall 5.3% this year, averaging about $1,500 per person. If realized, this would represent the sharpest decline since the pandemic. Concerning concerns about inflation, economic outlook, and generational differences in spending patterns, particularly among Gen Z, are cited as contributing factors. Taken together, the consumer picture is mixed. Back-to-school data points to resilience, while survey data signals caution. With the holidays approaching, tracking consumer behavior will be essential to gauge the health of the economy.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Rates are the Story first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Fed Hints at Rate Cuts Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell made statements last Friday that strongly hinted at a potential interest rate cut in September. This would mark the first rate cut since December 18, 2024, when the Fed reduced rates by 25 basis points. If implemented, the September cut would come after a nine-month gap, the longest pause between cuts in recent history. Historically, extended gaps between rate cuts have often signaled positive long-term outcomes for markets. However, short-term volatility remains a key concern. September and October have traditionally been challenging months for stocks, and given signs of economic slowing, the next three months could be bumpy. Despite this, historical data suggests that the S&P 500 has ended higher 12 months after similar periods nearly 91% of the time. Lower interest rates typically help stimulate economic activity and market growth, but patience and careful planning remain essential during this transition period. Consumer Prices: What to Expect Understanding where inflation may appear next is critical. Economic data like CPI (Consumer Price Index), PPI (Producer Price Index), and jobs numbers are often backward-looking. To gauge future trends, analysts have examined recent corporate earnings calls for forward-looking insights. Consumer staples, everyday essentials like soap, paper products, and food, showed a below-average number of mentions regarding price increases. This suggests that price hikes in staples are unlikely in the near term, which is good news for consumers. However, the outlook for consumer discretionary items, non-essential goods such as entertainment, apparel, and luxury items, is different. Mentions of planned price increases in this category spiked significantly, indicating that companies believe consumers may tolerate higher costs for discretionary purchases. This trend creates a unique dynamic: while everyday goods may remain stable, luxury and non-essential items could see price hikes, partially influenced by tariffs and lingering inflationary pressures. Monitoring these shifts will be critical for understanding where inflation impacts consumer wallets next. Market Moves After Powell’s Speech Leading up to Powell’s comments, markets experienced a five-day losing streak, reflecting investor uncertainty over the Fed’s stance. At the start of the week, the probability of a September rate cut stood at roughly 83%, but midweek fears of a more hawkish position pushed those odds down to nearly 55%. When Powell confirmed a willingness to cut rates and emphasized the need to support a weakening labor market, investor confidence returned. By Friday, the probability of a September cut rose back to 84–85%, and markets rallied sharply, recovering nearly half of the week’s earlier losses. Despite the overall volatility, underlying market activity revealed an important trend: the majority of weakness came from the year’s best-performing stocks, while lagging stocks saw gains. This rotation suggests that investors are repositioning portfolios rather than exiting markets altogether. The bond market echoed this sentiment. The two-year Treasury yield climbed through the week, reflecting uncertainty, before dropping after Powell’s comments signaled a dovish stance. This illustrates how closely markets are tied to Fed guidance and why investor sentiment can swing dramatically based on policy expectations.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Fed Comments, Market Response first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Labor Market Resilience Recent updates on inflation highlight important trends for consumers. While headline inflation remained relatively tame in July, the Producer Price Index (PPI) told a different story. The PPI for final demand, which measures average price changes received by domestic producers, showed that companies are increasingly passing cost increases along to consumers. Despite these pressures, retail sales data indicates that consumers remain willing to spend. This resilience is largely supported by the labor market, which continues to show strength. Although hiring has slowed, layoffs remain minimal. Importantly, CEO hiring forecasts have improved since April, when tariff concerns spooked employers. At that time, 39% of CEOs planned to reduce hiring; today, that number has dropped to just 21%. This matters greatly, as consumer spending fuels corporate earnings, and earnings, in turn, drive stock prices. For now, the stability of the labor market is proving strong enough to offset rising inflationary pressures. Strong Earnings Despite Tariff Pressures Second-quarter earnings, covering April through June, provide another encouraging signal. During a period filled with uncertainty around tariffs and higher input costs, many expected corporate America to struggle. Instead, the opposite occurred. Earnings expectations for the S&P 500 initially fell to $62.48 but rebounded sharply to $66.84 as companies reported results. To date, 80% of companies have reported, and nine of eleven sectors have exceeded expectations. On a year-over-year basis, earnings grew nearly 13%, a significant achievement given the challenges. This outcome demonstrates the adaptability of U.S. corporations. Many feared tariffs would serve as an excuse for disappointing results, yet companies were able to pivot and deliver stronger-than-expected performance. This innovation not only supports earnings today but also signals potential for continued growth. Since stock valuations are tied to earnings, strong earnings growth helps justify higher market levels. What some call an “expensive” market may quickly look reasonable if earnings continue to expand at current rates. Fed Policy and Rate Cut Expectations The Federal Reserve remains in focus as markets await updates from its Jackson Hole conference. At its last meeting, the Fed opted to keep rates steady, though two members dissented in favor of a rate cut. Attention now turns to whether cuts are imminent. Markets are currently pricing in about an 85% chance of a rate cut in September, down from nearly 98% after hotter than expected PPI data. The Fed has pointed to tariffs as a key driver of inflation, though this explanation remains debated. Beyond policy decisions, the composition of the Fed itself could soon change. President Trump is expected to nominate Stephen Miran to fill a vacant seat. While this would initially be a temporary role, Miran could later become a permanent member, depending on Chairman Jay Powell’s tenure. Future leadership possibilities include Kevin Warsh, Christopher Waller, or Kevin Hassett, underscoring the many moving parts in Fed decision-making.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Out-Earning Inflation first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Blended families can present unique estate planning challenges, especially when it comes to housing. Watch this week’s Educational Insights episode as Mark Hume explains how a life estate strategy, triggered by a will, could help ensure a surviving spouse has housing security while preserving the inheritance for biological children. Watch to learn more.   Mark Hume, CFP® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Mark Hume here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Life Estates first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Outperforming Expectations in a Volatile Market Market volatility remained a dominant theme last week as investors continued to process the ongoing news around tariffs. Despite these headwinds, one critical driver of equity markets, corporate earnings, has delivered far stronger results than anticipated. As the second-quarter reporting season nears its close, with roughly 70% of S&P 500 companies having reported, earnings continue to exceed expectations. Sales growth has reached 5.6%, while blended earnings growth stands at 11.2%, well above the July 1 estimate of 5.8%. If these numbers hold, it will mark the third consecutive quarter of double-digit growth. Strong results from the technology and consumer discretionary sectors have been key contributors to this performance, driving the latest leg higher in the index’s growth rate. This momentum is particularly notable given the uncertainty surrounding tariffs. As markets head into the third quarter, attention will shift toward more normalized expectations, and investors will be watching closely to see whether earnings can continue to support valuations that many consider expensive. The AI Spending Surge Earnings season is in full swing, and four of the world’s largest technology or tech-related companies have revealed staggering levels of investment in artificial intelligence. Collectively, these firms spent $95 billion in capital expenditures this quarter on AI initiatives alone. This trend shows no signs of slowing. With the recent tax bill providing attractive incentives for capital expenditures, estimates now project these four companies will spend $364 billion this fiscal year, up 12% from the previous $325 billion estimate. For perspective, before the pandemic, $364 billion would have equaled a government stimulus package. These record-breaking investments highlight the intensity of the race to lead in AI, a theme expected to remain firmly embedded in market dynamics for years to come. Fed Uncertainty Adds to Market Shifts In addition to tariff concerns, volatility has also been fueled by uncertainty surrounding Federal Reserve policy. Recent developments suggest a period of shakeup ahead, as investors weigh the Fed’s next moves alongside shifting market expectations. Understanding how these monetary policy decisions intersect with strong earnings and historic levels of AI spending will be critical in assessing the market’s trajectory in the coming months.     Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Outperforming Expectations first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Insights on Tariffs and Market Movement Last week was a heavy one for markets. As we noted earlier, there was significant potential for volatility driven by macroeconomic data, and that’s exactly what unfolded. Between a lower-than-expected GDP print, a soft jobs report, and heightened geopolitical tension around trade, the result was increased market uncertainty. The most notable downside risk stemmed from the Federal Reserve and the reluctance to commit to a September rate cut, despite mounting evidence of economic slowing and added pressure to the markets. The justification? Powell pointed to tariffs as inflationary, hence resisting a dovish stance. However, Friday’s surprisingly weak payroll report underscored the fragility of the current labor market. Only 73,000 jobs were added in the last month, well below trend, and downward revisions to May and June data added to the concern. The data package suggested the Fed may have already fallen behind, and we now expect a rate cut in September, in line with actions taken by other central banks this year. Additional cuts may follow into 2026. Looking internationally, we continue to track progress on trade agreements. Our research shows that countries securing tariff deals, highlighted in blue on our charts, are seeing stronger market outcomes than those still negotiating or holding out, highlighted in red. While last week’s events were challenging, it’s important to keep perspective. August is historically volatile with typically lower returns. However, fundamentals like credit conditions remain supportive. For example, initial jobless claims held steady at 218,000, indicating there’s no widespread employment breakdown. Moreover, recent U.S. tax reform and continued deregulation could support business activity moving forward. Fed Signals and Consumer Spending Building on those insights, the Federal Reserve’s position is worth a closer look. For the first time since 1993, two members of the Fed openly dissented from the policy decision, noting that rates should have been cut immediately. This level of disagreement is rare, especially given the Fed’s typically unified voice. The dissent highlights increasing tension and possible indecision within the Fed itself, as well as growing external pressure from figures like President Trump, who has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with Jerome Powell. Additionally, a Fed member recently resigned before the end of her term, adding another layer of uncertainty. Turning to GDP, the headline 3% real growth for Q2 was strong. However, beneath the surface, the numbers tell a more nuanced story. Consumer spending, which accounts for about 70% of GDP, remained solid, which is a positive signal for economic momentum. In Q1, businesses rushed to import goods before new tariffs kicked in. This front-loading inflated trade activity early in the year. By Q2, the effects faded, and net exports emerged as a stronger contributor to growth simply because the importing slowed down, not because of increased trade efficiency. In short, the volatility in trade numbers over the past two quarters has masked the underlying trends. We expect Q3 GDP to offer a clearer baseline of what’s truly happening in the economy post-tariffs. All eyes will be on the Fed’s Jackson Hole meeting and the upcoming September decision. These will be pivotal moments as policymakers evaluate whether to shift course amid mixed signals across jobs, growth, and inflation data.     Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Decisions and Deadlines first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

A provision in current tax law allows individuals to make qualified charitable distributions directly from their IRAs before reaching their required minimum distribution age. Watch this week’s Educational Insights episode as Mark Hume breaks down how this strategy remained unchanged through recent legislation and how it may offer tax advantages. Watch to learn more.   Mark Hume, CFP® Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Mark Hume here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Charitable Giving Strategy first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Consumer Confidence and Household Resilience This week brings several important economic indicators, and consumer confidence is the top among them. Despite headlines about tariffs and slowing savings yields, the consumer remains surprisingly strong. We hear from clients that bank savings account yields are declining, and that’s supported by the data: peak yields from money market funds have dropped since August of last year. However, these yields are still elevated by historical standards, dating back to 1990. Even as passive income from savings weakens, consumers are well-positioned. High credit card debt often dominates headlines, but household balance sheets remain healthier than many realize. Debt service payments as a percentage of disposable income are actually below the 2010s average. That’s due largely to the deleveraging that occurred throughout that decade. While we can’t say consumers are immune to higher prices, recent labor market improvements and the relative stability of tariffs suggest a resilient spending environment. Consumer spending drives both the economy and equity markets, so these indicators offer some optimism as we analyze upcoming reports. Fed Policy and Economic Momentum The Federal Reserve is in the spotlight this week, with market speculation swirling around potential rate cuts. While expectations at the start of 2024 called for up to ten cuts, the current outlook anticipates fewer than two by year’s end. That shift is driven by a stronger-than-expected economy and robust consumer activity. Two key charts support this: domestic air travel is at an all-time high, and total vehicle miles driven have not only recovered from the COVID dip but reached record levels. The takeaway? Consumers aren’t just spending; they’re traveling and engaging actively with the economy. Money market yields are another factor buoying spending. While interest costs are rising for some, others, like consumers with savings, are earning an estimated $25 billion a month in interest. That income supports ongoing economic momentum. Additionally, market indicators show little divergence from the Federal Reserve’s policy rate. The current spread between the Fed funds rate and the two-year Treasury rate suggests minimal anticipation of drastic changes. That aligns with a core truth: inevitability does not imply immediacy. Yes, rate cuts are likely on the horizon, but the timing remains uncertain, and the Fed appears appropriately cautious, not wanting to repeat the mistakes of the late 1970s, when premature cuts fueled inflation. Tariff Updates and Liquidity Outlook Tariffs remain a major talking point among clients, and last week brought important developments. Several trade agreements were finalized, just ahead of the August 1st implementation deadline for tariffs announced in April. Agreements with the Philippines, Japan, and the EU resulted in slightly reduced rates compared to the initial proposals. For example, Japan’s proposed 25% rate was negotiated down to 15%. As a result, the average U.S. import tariff rate has decreased from 21.6% in April to 13.5% today. While tariffs remain elevated compared to the start of the year, the impact has been less severe than initially feared, underscoring the importance of measured, ongoing negotiation. Another significant but less publicized event this week is the quarterly refunding announcement. Following the recent debt ceiling increase, the U.S. Treasury is set to resume debt issuance after a long pause. This shift will create a liquidity drain, as capital flows from the market into Treasury securities. The key question is how the Treasury will structure the new issuance. Favoring short-term debt could help prevent long-term interest rates from rising too quickly. We’ll be watching this closely, as it may influence market behavior more than any headline-grabbing Fed statement.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Associate Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a

As generational wealth shifts hands, new priorities and perspectives are rising to the forefront. Watch this week’s educational episode where Ashley Page breaks down how this transformation is influencing everything from charitable giving to long-term planning. Watch to learn more.   Ashley Page, JD, MBA Senior Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ashley Page here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post How Women are Impacting Wealth Transfer first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

The Small Business Boost Recent legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, has introduced significant tax incentives for small and medium-sized businesses, and these changes are already generating widespread interest. This is no surprise, as businesses with fewer than 500 employees make up more than 80% of total employment in the U.S. Specifically, companies with 1–49 employees represent 44% of total employment, while those with 50–499 employees account for another 38%. The bill includes several impactful provisions. Chief among them is the permanent 20% qualified business income (QBI) deduction for pass-through entities, such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and S Corporations. Previously set to expire, this deduction now offers long-term tax relief. Another key change is the immediate deduction for domestic research and development expenses, which allows businesses to write off those costs in the year incurred. This improves cash flow and promotes innovation. Additionally, updated rules around interest deductibility now enable companies to deduct more borrowing costs, potentially encouraging greater investment. One of the most business-friendly updates is the 100% bonus depreciation for new capital investments. Companies can fully write off the cost of qualifying purchases like equipment, vehicles, and software in the year they are acquired. Collectively, these incentives aim to stimulate business expansion, job creation, and overall economic growth. While our team continues to analyze the long-term impact of the bill, early indicators point to strong potential for positive outcomes. Inflation, Interest Rates, and Market Signals Understanding inflation and interest rate trends is essential to interpreting broader economic momentum. Two key metrics we monitor closely are the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Producer Price Index (PPI). The PPI measures what producers pay for raw materials and services, while the CPI reflects the prices consumers ultimately face. Earlier in the year, we saw the PPI rising faster than the CPI, a trend that historically signals rising consumer costs ahead. Recently, however, the PPI has started to cool down while the CPI has moved higher. This shift is noteworthy, particularly considering new tariffs, which often contribute to inflation. Encouragingly, imported goods were up just 0.10%, indicating minimal tariff-driven inflation at this point. Perhaps even more important than inflation readings themselves is how the market interprets them. The 10-Year U.S. Treasury yield is widely considered the most influential interest rate in the world, serving as a benchmark for mortgage rates and corporate borrowing costs. On July 14th, the 10-Year Treasury yield peaked at 4.49%, before declining to 4.37%. Though this movement may seem minor, the 4.5% threshold has proven significant. Historically, when the 10-Year yield rises above 4.5%, equity markets tend to move sideways or decline. That’s because higher yields make fixed-income investments more attractive and raise borrowing costs for businesses, potentially hurting corporate earnings. Despite inflation remaining above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, the market’s reaction, particularly falling yields, suggests confidence that inflation is under control. As long as the 10-Year Treasury remains below that 4.5% barrier, the outlook for U.S. equities remains positive.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Associate Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Charts You Need to See first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Retirement plans aren’t one-size-fits-all and choosing the right one can make a big difference for your future. Watch this week’s educational episode where Ty Miller breaks down the key options, including some that many investors overlook. Watch to learn more.   Ty Miller Associate Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment advisor.The post Retirement Plan Options first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

Corporate Earnings: What to Watch and Why It Matters Earnings are always a major driver of the stock market, but this season carries even greater weight than usual. As economist Larry Kudlow famously said, “Earnings are the mother’s milk of stock market growth.” This earnings season is particularly important because of how much has changed since the last earning seasons. Rarely does a corporate tax code change so drastically from one quarter to another, but that’s what’s happened. It’s rare to see such a dramatic shift in tax policy from one quarter to the next. The most significant changes include major updates to capital expenditure (CapEx) and research and development deductions. These won’t impact current earnings directly, but they will play a major role in how companies forecast their future. Investors will be looking closely to see how corporate America plans to leverage these changes and how they might use them to drive long-term growth. These deductions allow businesses to front-load expenses, which reduces tax liability now but creates room for investment in future earnings potential. That’s a positive development for both companies and investors. The real question is how corporate leaders will frame these decisions, and will they take bold steps to ramp up investment and innovation? Secondly, we really want to see how corporate America is using AI as that has started to improve. AI is a highly capital-intensive investment, and investors want to know how companies are beginning to use it. Tariffs also remain an important factor. Recent data from the U.S. Budget Department shows that in June, federal tax revenues increased by $101 billion compared to the same time last year. Interestingly, most of that increase came from individuals, higher payroll taxes and income taxes, not corporation taxes. In fact, corporate tax revenue was down 0.4% year over year. Roughly a third of the additional revenue came from tariffs. While the numbers don’t specify which companies are absorbing those costs, it’s clear that tariff-related expenses are impacting business bottom lines. The question is, are public companies, like those in the S&P 500, carrying that burden, or is it falling more heavily on smaller, private firms? A lot of data is going to be coming out of these earnings. We’ll not only learn how much companies earn but also how they’re adapting. The largest financial institutions will report first, and they reach nearly every part of corporate America. Where the money is flowing and where it’s being held back will offer vital insights as earnings season unfolds. We’ll get a lot of data right off the bat, but then we’re going to be following it throughout all of earnings season. Second Half Market Outlook: What History Tells Us While earnings are front and center, it’s also a good time to look ahead. After a volatile start to the year, our attention now turns to what the market could have in store for investors during the second half of the year. Looking back at historical data provides some guidance. The S&P 500 wrapped up in the first half of the year with a gain of 5.5%, recovering strongly from a deep April correction. Historically, when the index posts a positive first half, it goes on to deliver an average second-half return of 6.1%. More specifically, when first-half gains have landed in the 5% to 10% range, just like we saw this year, the second half has also averaged a 6.1% return. Even more encouraging, in 86% of those cases, the second half ended positively. While history doesn’t guarantee future results, this data supports a cautiously optimistic outlook. Investors will be paying close attention not just to what companies have already done, but also what they plan to do next.   Greg Powell, CIMA® President and CEO Wealth Consultant Email Greg Powell here Bobby Norman, CFP®, AIF®, CEPA® Managing Director Wealth Consultant Email Bobby Norman here Trey Booth, CFA®, AIF® Chief Investment Officer Wealth Consultant Email Trey Booth here Ty Miller, AIF® Associate Vice President Wealth Consultant Email Ty Miller here   Fi Plan Partners is an independent investment firm in Birmingham, AL, with a team of professionals serving clients across the nation through financial planning, wealth management and business consulting. The team at Fi Plan Partners creates strategies in the best interest of their clients using fee based investing. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly. Economic forecasts set forth in this presentation may not develop as predicted. No strategy can ensure success or protect against a loss. Stock investing involves risk including potential loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Fina