Fi Plan Partners

By Fi Plan PartnersEducation Self-Improvement

Fi Plan Partners episodes

June 01 Behind the Headlines
Corporate Profitability Remains Exceptionally Strong
With earnings season now complete, the latest results indicate that the fundamental backdrop for the equity market remains healthy. One of the most important measures of market strength is operating margin, which reflects how much profit a company generates from its core operations after covering production-related costs. Companies within the S&P 500 are currently reporting operating margins of approximately 20.3%, reaching record levels. These strong margins demonstrate that businesses continue to operate efficiently and maintain profitability despite ongoing concerns about inflation, tariffs, and geopolitical uncertainty. The trend is even more encouraging when considering the potential impact of artificial intelligence and other productivity-enhancing technologies. As these innovations become more integrated into business operations, the benefits should increasingly be reflected in corporate profitability. Equal-weight operating margins, which provide a broader view of company performance across the market, are also approaching record highs. The continued improvement in margins suggests that productivity gains and operational efficiencies are beginning to spread across a wider range of companies. Rather than focusing solely on short-term uncertainties, investors appear to be recognizing the strength of corporate earnings and profit growth.
Consumer Debt Headlines Miss the Bigger Picture
Recent headlines have focused heavily on rising consumer debt, creating concern that Americans may be struggling financially. However, debt levels alone do not provide a complete picture of consumer health. A closer examination reveals that delinquency rates, the percentage of borrowers falling behind on payments, remain relatively low. Credit card delinquency rates have recently declined to approximately 2.92%, down from levels seen earlier in the year and well below the peaks experienced during the Global Financial Crisis. This distinction is important. Consumers may be carrying more debt, but the key question is whether they can manage and repay those obligations. Current data suggests that, for the most part, they can. Employment remains one of the primary reasons for this resilience. Despite widespread headlines about layoffs and technological disruption, initial jobless claims continue to stay near historically low levels. As long as consumers remain employed, they generally retain the ability to meet their financial obligations and continue spending. Consumer spending rose by 0.5% in April, even as wage growth remained relatively flat. While some of this spending may be supported by borrowing, tax refunds, or drawing down savings, these trends can remain sustainable for a period when supported by a growing economy, strong employment, and healthy corporate profits. The personal savings rate has declined, which bears watching, but the broader picture remains constructive. Moving forward, labor market data will continue to be one of the most important indicators for evaluating consumer strength and overall economic health.
Is This Market Really a Bubble?
One of the most common concerns among investors today is whether the current market environment resembles the technology bubble of the late 1990s. While certain similarities exist, a closer examination of the data reveals important differences. During the 1990s technology boom, stock prices rose dramatically despite relatively weak earnings growth. Much of the market’s return came from what is known as multiple expansion, where investors became willing to pay increasingly higher prices for each dollar of earnings based on expectations of future growth. In many cases, stock prices surged even as underlying earnings failed to keep pace. Between 1995 and 1999, the S&P 500 generated returns of approximately 220%, while earnings grew only about 67%. This disconnect between prices and profits was a defining characteristic of the technology bubble. Today’s market tells a different story. While some multiple expansion has occurred, earnings growth has been the primary driver of returns since the current bull market began in the second half of 2023. Corporate profits have continued to rise, helping justify much of the market’s advance. Although valuations remain elevated by historical standards, earnings growth has largely kept pace with stock price appreciation. In fact, strong earnings growth can make valuations appear more reasonable over time as companies generate greater profits to support higher stock prices. The relationship between earnings and market performance remains one of the most important indicators of long-term sustainability. Unlike previous bubble periods, current market gains are being supported by measurable improvements in corporate profitability.

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 Behind the Headlines first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min
May 28 Who is Carrying the Cost of Tariffs?
New research from several highly regarded institutions suggests that Americans, not foreign nations, are absorbing nearly the full cost of recent tariffs. While tariffs are beginning to reshape global trade flows and create leverage through reduced trade volume, the immediate financial impact is falling much closer to home than many may realize. Watch this week’s episode of Educational Insights, where Ashley Page explains what these findings could mean for consumers, businesses, and the broader economy moving forward.
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 recording are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional prior to making a decision.
Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful.
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.
This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
The post Who is Carrying the Cost of Tariffs? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min
May 21 Markets and the Midterms
Markets and elections often create uncertainty, but history tells an interesting story about how midterm election years have traditionally impacted market performance. In this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ty Miller breaks down the historical trends, why volatility tends to rise during midterm years, and what past market cycles may suggest about the road ahead. While short-term swings can create concern, the long-term data paints a much more encouraging picture. Watch the latest insight to see why investors may want to keep history and perspective in mind.
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 Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P500) is a capitalization-weighted index of 500 stocks designed to measure performance of the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks representing all major industries. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.
This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
The post Markets and the Midterms first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
3 min
May 18 Earnings Bonanza
Strong Earnings Continue to Support the Market
Markets continue to navigate a range of macroeconomic concerns, including rising gas prices and ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East. Investors are also closely watching the Federal Reserve, as higher yields and interest rates remain a key topic of discussion. Despite these external pressures, one area of the economy continues to stand out: the strength of corporate America. First-quarter earnings season has delivered exceptionally strong results for companies within the S&P 500 Index. As of May 8, 84% of companies had reported earnings above analyst estimates, well above the five-year average of 78%. The breadth of this strength has also been impressive, with seven of the index’s eleven sectors posting year-over-year earnings growth rates of at least 10%. Revenue growth has been equally encouraging. The S&P 500 recorded blended revenue growth of 11.3% in the first quarter, marking the 22nd consecutive quarter of revenue expansion. This sustained growth reinforces the argument that corporate fundamentals remain healthy, even amid broader economic uncertainty. As investors continue to debate whether equity markets are overpriced, current earnings and revenue trends suggest that many valuations may be more justified than critics expected at the start of the year. Corporations have largely met or exceeded expectations, providing strong support for market performance.
Why Valuations May Not Be as Stretched as They Appear
One of the most common concerns among investors today is whether markets have become too expensive. Questions surrounding a potential artificial intelligence bubble and elevated valuations continue to dominate conversations. While valuations in certain areas of the market may appear stretched on the surface, earnings growth is telling a more nuanced story. A key factor often overlooked is the relationship between stock prices and earnings growth. While market prices have risen, earnings expectations have risen even faster. Current estimates for next 12-month earnings per share have increased by approximately 13%, while the broader market has advanced roughly 8% over the same period. This dynamic has led to what is known as “multiple compression.” In simple terms, even though stock prices are rising, companies are becoming relatively less expensive because earnings growth is outpacing price appreciation. This is the opposite of “multiple expansion,” where prices rise faster than earnings and valuations become increasingly stretched. The result is a market that may actually be cheaper today than it was earlier in the year, despite higher index levels. Strong earnings growth has effectively helped valuations normalize, as prices continue working to catch up with improving corporate fundamentals.

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 Earnings Bonanza first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min
May 14 Understanding 530A Accounts
There’s been a lot of buzz recently around the new 530A Accounts, also known as “Trump Accounts,” a savings and retirement vehicle designed specifically for children, even starting at birth. In this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Jason Hatley breaks down how these accounts work, who qualifies, and why families are asking whether this could become a valuable long-term planning tool. From potential government contributions to unique tax advantages, there’s a lot to unpack.
Watch to learn more.
Jason Hatley, CFP®, CPA, PFS
Senior Vice President
Financial Planning Manager
Email Jason Hatley 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.
Trump Accounts offer tax deferred growth on earnings. Family contributions are made with after tax dollars, and eligible employer contributions may be excluded from the employee’s taxable income. A one time $1,000 federal contribution may be available for eligible children born between 2025 and 2028. Distributions are generally prohibited during the child’s growth period and, once permitted, are taxable as ordinary income and may be subject to a 10% IRS early distribution penalty if taken before age 59½. Contribution limits and other restrictions apply, and some rules remain subject to future Treasury and IRS guidance. Consult a qualified tax advisor or financial professional before making decisions.
This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
The post Understanding 530A Accounts first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
17 min
May 11 What’s China Got to Do with It?
Inflation, Wages, and the Global Impact of China
Economic data released over the past two weeks has provided investors with important insight into the health of the U.S. economy and the potential direction of markets moving forward. One of the most significant reports came from the latest jobs data, which showed the U.S. economy added approximately 115,000 jobs. Even more encouraging, average earnings increased 3.6% year-over-year, coming in stronger than many economists expected and offering another sign of resilience in the labor market. While wage growth is a positive development for workers, the next key question is how much of those gains consumers actually get to keep after inflation. This week’s upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) reports will be closely watched as investors look for clearer signs on inflation trends. These reports remain two of the most important measures of pricing pressures throughout the economy. Energy prices continue to play a major role in the inflation story. Elevated gasoline costs are forcing consumers to dedicate more of their budgets toward fuel expenses, leaving less available for spending in other parts of the economy. Investors will be watching carefully for any signs of “demand destruction,” where higher costs begin slowing consumer activity in other sectors. Adding to the importance of the week, President Trump is expected to travel to China for a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping. Discussions are expected to center around tariffs, trade cooperation, and geopolitical concerns involving Iran. Markets will be closely monitoring whether the two countries can make progress toward increasing trade activity between the U.S. and China, which could help ease inflationary pressures globally. China’s own inflation data has shown rising pricing pressures, fueled in part by the conflict involving Iran and the impact on oil markets. As one of the largest buyers of Iranian oil, China’s role in global energy demand remains significant. Any cooperation or policy shifts resulting from these meetings could influence inflation trends, energy markets, and employment conditions both domestically and abroad. With strong economic data already emerging, investors are now focused on how these global developments may shape the market outlook in the months ahead.
Broadening Market Strength Supports Investor Confidence
Despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Middle East, elevated oil prices, and continued questions about Federal Reserve policy, the stock market has remained remarkably resilient. One of the key reasons for this strength has been the continued momentum in corporate earnings. Coming into the year, many analysts anticipated that market leadership would begin to expand beyond the large-cap technology companies that have dominated returns in recent years. That trend is now beginning to materialize, creating what many investors view as a healthier and more sustainable market environment. From January 1 through April 24, small-cap and mid-cap stocks outperformed the S&P 500, signaling stronger participation across a broader range of companies and sectors. This broadening market participation is an encouraging development because it reduces the market’s dependence on a small group of mega-cap stocks to drive overall performance. A wider range of companies contributing to market gains can help strengthen the market’s ability to navigate uncertainty, whether from geopolitical risks, inflation concerns, or shifting Federal Reserve expectations. Analysts also continue to forecast strong corporate earnings growth across multiple market segments, with some projecting record earnings levels by the end of the year. The combination of resilient earnings, improving participation across the market, and continued economic strength provides a constructive backdrop for investors moving forward. While uncertainty remains a constant factor in financial markets, the expanding strength beneath the surface of the market has become an increasingly positive sign for the remainder of the year.

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 What’s China Got to Do with It? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min
May 07 Changes in E-Commerce: What Gives?
On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page explores why e-commerce delivery trends are shifting from speed to cost savings as rising shipping expenses reshape consumer priorities. He breaks down how retailers are adapting to changing shopper preferences, with more consumers now choosing free standard delivery over expedited shipping. He also explores why these evolving retail trends matter for the broader economy and financial markets, given retail’s major role in consumer spending and U.S. GDP growth.
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 Changes in E-Commerce: What Gives? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min
May 04 Earnings Blowout
Federal Reserve Transition and Rising Dissent
The most recent Federal Open Market Committee meeting marked a significant transition point, as it was the final meeting led by Chairman Jerome Powell. While leadership changes at the Fed are not unusual, one unexpected development stands out: Powell will remain on the Board of Governors after stepping down as chairman, an uncommon move that introduces a new dynamic within the institution. This decision raises important questions about influence and governance. Former chairs rarely stay on due to the potential complications of overlapping authority, making Powell’s continued presence noteworthy as the Fed prepares for incoming leadership under Kevin Walsh. Equally significant is the rise in dissent among committee members. Four out of twelve participants opposed the latest decision, bringing the annual dissent rate to approximately 19%, a relatively high figure by historical standards. While markets often interpret dissent as instability, it may instead signal a healthier, more transparent decision-making process. Diverging viewpoints can lead to more rigorous debate and ultimately stronger policy outcomes. In a complex and uncertain economic environment, unanimity may be less realistic, and less desirable, than thoughtful disagreement. Increased openness within the Fed could provide clearer insight into policy direction and improve market understanding over time.
Technology Drives a Strong Earnings Season
Corporate earnings have taken center stage, delivering a much-needed boost to market confidence. Following a period of geopolitical tension and rising oil prices, recent earnings reports, particularly from the technology sector, have exceeded expectations and helped propel the S&P 500 higher. The scale of growth within technology has been particularly striking. First-quarter earnings for the sector are projected to grow by more than 50%, far outpacing the rest of the index. Even more notable is the upward revision of future expectations, with 2026 earnings estimates increasing by nearly 15 percentage points as companies accelerate capital investments, especially in artificial intelligence. While debate continues around the long-term payoff of AI spending, early indicators suggest these investments are already contributing to stronger earnings. Enhanced productivity and improved margins are reinforcing the sector’s leadership position. If execution remains strong and economic conditions stay supportive, technology companies appear well-positioned to sustain above-average growth. This momentum could continue to play a central role in driving broader market performance and potentially reducing volatility, particularly in historically turbulent election cycles.
Economic Stability: GDP and Labor Market Strength
The broader economic picture remains steady, with first-quarter real GDP coming in at approximately 2%, aligning with long-term growth targets. After accounting for inflation, this figure reflects a stable and resilient expansion, supported primarily by strong consumer spending. Consumers continue to be the backbone of the economy, representing roughly 70% of total activity. Their consistent spending has offset weaker areas such as housing, which has remained a drag on growth. Meanwhile, components like government spending, trade, and inventories have shown volatility, largely influenced by policy uncertainty and external factors. One of the most compelling data points comes from the labor market. Initial jobless claims recently dropped to 189,000, the lowest level since 1969 on a raw, non-adjusted basis. This milestone underscores the continued strength of employment conditions, one half of the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate alongside inflation control. While inflation remains an ongoing challenge, the strength in employment provides a solid foundation for the economy. Markets have responded positively to these signals, though attention remains focused on how external pressures, such as geopolitical tensions and energy prices, may influence future quarters.

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 Earnings Blowout first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min
April 30 GDP and the Need for Enhanced Productivity
On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ty Miller breaks down the key drivers of economic growth, explaining how GDP is shaped by population trends and productivity. He explores why slowing population growth has weighed on the economy and how advancements in artificial intelligence could help fuel the next phase of expansion. While concerns around job disruption persist, historical trends show that innovation has consistently created new opportunities, reinforcing the economy’s ability to adapt and grow over time.
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 GDP and the Need for Enhanced Productivity first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
4 min
April 27 Shaking Up the Fed
Federal Reserve Leadership in Transition
A significant shift is underway at the Federal Reserve, placing unusual attention on both policy decisions and leadership changes. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) convenes this week to determine the direction of interest rates, whether to raise, lower, or maintain current levels. While expectations suggest rates will remain unchanged, the real focus lies in the messaging that follows the decision, particularly during the chairman’s press conference, where future policy direction is often clarified. This meeting carries added weight as it is likely the final one led by current Chairman Jerome Powell. A key development is the anticipated confirmation of Kevin Warsh as his successor, following movement in the Senate to advance his nomination. The timing creates a rare overlap in influence, with both Powell and Warsh shaping expectations around monetary policy. This dual presence introduces a degree of uncertainty, as markets interpret signals from both current and incoming leadership. Another point of interest is whether Powell will remain on the Federal Reserve Board after stepping down as chairman. Historically, most departing chairs have chosen to leave entirely, though remaining as a voting member is an option. Such a scenario could create an unconventional dynamic within the Fed’s leadership structure. At the same time, expectations for interest rate cuts have moderated. Many market participants now anticipate a steady rate environment in the near term. As leadership transitions, attention will remain fixed not only on official statements but also on market reactions, particularly movements in the 10-year Treasury yield, which often reflects the market’s true interpretation of policy direction.
Market Breadth Signals a Stronger Rally
While Federal Reserve policy remains a critical driver of market performance, corporate earnings and profit margins continue to play a foundational role. Alongside these factors, technical indicators offer valuable insight into the sustainability of market trends. One such indicator is the advance-decline line, which measures market breadth by tracking the number of advancing stocks versus declining ones. Unlike price-based indices that can be heavily influenced by large-cap stocks, this metric provides a clearer picture of overall market participation. Recent data shows encouraging signs. The advance-decline line has reached new highs, supported by broad participation across the market. Since the market’s low in late March, a majority of stocks have rebounded from oversold conditions, reinforcing the strength of the current rally. Historically, this type of widespread participation has been a reliable signal of more durable upward trends. The improvement in market breadth suggests that the rally is not narrowly concentrated but instead supported by a healthier underlying structure. While no single indicator is definitive, this development strengthens the case for continued market resilience.
Oil Prices and Geopolitical Patterns
Geopolitical events, particularly in the Middle East, often bring heightened attention to oil prices and their broader economic impact. Initial reactions to such events typically involve sharp price increases, reinforcing concerns about inflation and rising costs for consumers. However, historical trends reveal a more nuanced pattern. Data tracking oil price behavior before and after geopolitical events shows that prices often begin adjusting well in advance, suggesting that markets may anticipate disruptions before they fully materialize. More notably, the longer-term trend tends to contradict the initial spike. On average, oil prices are approximately 5% lower 65 days after a geopolitical event. Extending the timeline further, prices are typically down around 3% after 250 days, with median figures indicating even steeper declines. These patterns suggest that while short-term volatility is common, sustained increases are less typical. This tendency highlights the importance of maintaining a broader perspective when evaluating energy markets. While immediate price movements capture attention, longer-term trends often reflect stabilization or decline as markets adjust and uncertainties resolve. As geopolitical developments continue to unfold, oil prices remain a key variable to monitor, not only for their direct impact on consumers but also for their influence on inflation and overall economic conditions.

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 Shaking Up the Fed first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.
5 min

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