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Market Insights


What to Do When Markets Are Volatile: A Smarter Way to Respond
What to do when markets are volatile: Learn how to stay grounded, avoid emotional decisions, and focus on what actually matters for your financial plan.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


When Energy Markets Shake Everything Else: Why Oil Prices Can Drive Market Volatility
Energy markets influence nearly every part of the global economy. When oil prices move sharply during geopolitical crises, market volatility often follows.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Middle East Conflict and Market Volatility: Keeping Perspective During Uncertain Times
Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East triggered market volatility across stocks, oil, and gold. Understanding how markets react to global conflict can help investors maintain long-term perspective.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Dow 50,000: What Record Highs Really Mean for Long-Term Investors
The Dow crossing 50,000 is a historic milestone — but record highs often feel uncomfortable for investors. Here’s what Dow 50,000 really means for long-term planning and how to think about investing when markets feel “high.”

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


January Market Update: A Strong Start and What It May Signal for 2026
January delivered a constructive start for markets in 2026, with gains across most asset classes and a notable shift in leadership toward smaller companies and global equities. This update reviews January performance and what early trends may signal for the year ahead.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Staying the Course During Market Volatility
Market volatility can feel unsettling when headlines are loud. This post explains why turbulence is normal, why reactions matter more than markets, and how staying disciplined supports long-term success.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


2025 Market Review and What It May Mean for Investors in 2026
A review of 2025 market performance and key lessons investors can carry into 2026.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Phantom Income Tax on Investments: Why You May Owe Taxes on Money You Never Received
Phantom income tax on investments can leave you owing taxes on money you never received. Learn what causes it and how planning ahead can prevent unwanted surprises at tax time.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Federal Reserve Rate Cut: What It Means for Your Money
The Federal Reserve just cut interest rates for the first time this year—a small move with big implications. From mortgages and credit cards to investments and retirement planning, even a quarter-point shift can ripple through your financial life. Here’s what the Fed’s decision means for you and why staying proactive with your plan matters.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Why the Stock Market Is Rising Even as the U.S. Economy Slows
The U.S. economy is slowing — but the stock market keeps climbing. Discover why lower interest rate expectations, tech giants’ earnings, and investor sentiment are driving gains despite weak economic data.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Tariffs and the Stock Market: Trade Shifts and a Surprising August Rally
A recent shift in U.S. trade policy introduced new tariffs—but markets reacted with surprising optimism. Here's why the news is “less bad” than expected and what it means for your investments.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Historical Insights on Market Resilience During Geopolitical Conflicts
When global conflict rattles the headlines, it’s natural to worry about your investments. But history shows that markets often recover—and even grow—in the months that follow. In this post, I share data-backed insights on how the S&P 500 has responded to past geopolitical events and why staying the course can pay off.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


The Cost of Missing the Best Days in the Market: Staying Invested During Market Volatility
Staying Invested Beats Timing the Market During periods of market volatility, it's completely normal to feel uncertain or anxious. But...

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®


Warren Buffett Investment Principles: Lessons from a Legendary Investor
Warren Buffett’s success isn’t just about returns—it’s about timeless principles like patience, simplicity, and staying the course. In this post, I break down key Warren Buffett investment principles and how you can apply them to your own long-term financial plan.

Jeff Schlotterbeck, CFP®
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