Fi Plan Partners

Fi Plan Partners

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Fi Plan Partners episodes

  • Good News, Bad News… We’ll See

    On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Trey Booth shares the timeless story of a Chinese farmer to reframe how we interpret today’s headlines and market events. He connects this perspective to modern topics like tariffs, artificial intelligence, and economic uncertainty, illustrating how initial reactions often fail to capture the full picture. In a world driven by rapid news cycles, patience and perspective remain essential disciplines for making sound investment decisions.

    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 Good News, Bad News… We’ll See first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    3 min
  • Will the Market Rally Hold?

    Consumer Liquidity, Market Support, and Federal Reserve Watch

    As the calendar moves past Tax Day, fresh data provides a clearer view of consumer finances. This year has delivered a notable surge in tax refunds, rising 34% year-over-year heading into mid-April. In total, individual refunds have reached approximately $270 billion, well above last year’s $225 billion and prior years’ levels. This influx of cash offers a meaningful liquidity boost for consumers, helping offset persistent pressures such as elevated energy costs and broader inflationary trends. This added financial cushion comes at a critical time. While oil prices have recently eased from their peaks, they remain relatively high, continuing to strain household budgets. Increased refund activity may therefore serve as a stabilizing force, supporting spending and softening the impact of these external cost pressures. On the market side, recent developments have introduced both volatility and opportunity. A tentative geopolitical ceasefire initially sparked optimism, contributing to a market rally before signs of instability reintroduced uncertainty. Despite this, equities have shown resilience. The S&P 500 has established a higher technical support range, now sitting around 6,800 to 6,900, compared to the previous level, near 6,200. This shift suggests the market may have more room to absorb fluctuations while maintaining its upward trajectory. Attention is also turning toward monetary policy leadership. The United States Senate Banking Committee is set to hold a hearing on the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve. The process carries potential implications for market stability, particularly given ongoing tensions surrounding current Fed Chair Jerome Powell. A key date to watch is May 16, the target for finalizing the appointment. Delays or disputes could introduce further uncertainty into financial markets.

    Corporate Profits as the Market’s Anchor

    Despite the noise surrounding geopolitical tensions, fluctuating interest rate expectations, and valuation concerns, the fundamental driver of market performance remains unchanged: corporate profitability. Over the long term, there has been a strong correlation between profit margins and the trajectory of the S&P 500. Since 2010, corporate profit margins have trended upward significantly, reflecting improved efficiency, pricing power, and economic expansion. This trend continues to serve as a key pillar supporting equity valuations. Current projections suggest that first-quarter profit margins will reach approximately 14.18%, a substantial increase from 9.64% in late 2010 and approaching the record high of 14.45% achieved in the fourth quarter of last year. These elevated margins indicate that companies are maintaining strong earnings power, even amid broader economic uncertainty. As earnings season gains momentum, the focus on profit margins becomes increasingly important. If companies can sustain or even stabilize margins at current levels, the market is likely to retain enough strength to withstand external pressures, from geopolitical instability to shifting monetary policy expectations. While short-term volatility may persist, particularly in response to developments surrounding international conflicts and policy decisions, the underlying health of corporate earnings provides a stabilizing force. In the broader context, it is this earnings strength that will determine whether the market rally can endure.

     

    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 Will the Market Rally Hold? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    5 min
  • Leaving the U.S. & Why It Matters

    On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page explores a rapidly growing trend of Americans relocating abroad in record numbers and what it could mean for the U.S. economy and financial markets. He breaks down the key drivers behind this shift, including rising domestic costs, the expansion of remote work, and evolving lifestyle priorities, while highlighting the potential long-term impact on economic growth and talent retention. As global mobility becomes more accessible, this perspective offers valuable insight into how shifting population trends may influence future investment and planning decisions.

    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 Leaving the U.S. & Why It Matters first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    8 min
  • Energy Prices and Your Wallet

    Technology Sector and Market Valuations

    Recent market volatility has led to increased analysis across key sectors, particularly technology. For several years, there have been concerns that the technology sector was overvalued, raising the risk that a correction could negatively impact the broader market. However, recent market movements have helped reset valuations. Forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratios for technology stocks have declined significantly, from around 40 to approximately 20, bringing them more in line with the broader market. This shift is important because forward P/E is a key indicator used to assess whether stocks are overvalued or undervalued based on expected future growth rather than past performance. Despite this decline in valuations, earnings growth in the technology sector is still projected to remain strong, with expectations in the mid-teens or higher. This combination of lower valuations and continued earnings growth may attract new investment into the sector. As technology represents a significant portion of the overall market, renewed investor interest could help offset broader market weakness and support overall market stability.

    Inflation, Energy Prices, and Consumer Impact

    The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed a notable increase in inflation during March, with a 0.9% rise month over month. A significant portion of this increase, more than three-quarters, was driven by an 11% surge in energy prices. While rising energy costs are impactful, it is important to understand how they affect overall consumer spending. When a larger share of income is allocated to fuel, consumers are often forced to reduce spending in other areas. This concept, known as “demand destruction,” occurs when higher prices in one category lead to decreased demand in others. This trend was evident in the most recent data. Outside of energy, a substantial number of goods within the CPI actually saw price declines, with roughly 40% of tracked items decreasing in price. Additionally, recent credit card spending data shows an overall increase in consumer spending, but a disproportionate share, about 40%, has been directed toward gasoline purchases. While consumers may temporarily absorb these higher costs, particularly with the support of tax refunds, the longer-term effect is reduced flexibility in spending. If elevated energy prices persist, this shift could lead to continued strength in the energy sector while creating weakness in other areas of the economy.

    Geopolitical Tensions and Oil Supply Risks

    Ongoing geopolitical developments, particularly involving Iran and the United States, continue to play a critical role in energy markets. While initial expectations suggested a short-term conflict lasting four to six weeks, and some de-escalation has occurred, no permanent agreement has been reached. As a result, attention remains focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. Control and restrictions in this region have created ongoing uncertainty in oil distribution. Iran has demonstrated its ability to influence the flow of oil through the strait, at times limiting access while allowing selective shipments. Meanwhile, U.S. efforts to impose additional restrictions further complicate the situation. This dynamic creates the potential for reduced oil supply over an extended period. If these constraints persist, oil prices may remain elevated for longer than initially anticipated. This could further contribute to the demand destruction discussed earlier, as consumers and businesses continue to adjust to higher energy costs. The situation remains fluid, and its impact on both energy markets and the broader economy will depend on future geopolitical developments.

     

    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 Energy Prices and Your Wallet first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    5 min
  • When to Start Social Security Benefits

    On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Robert Moody breaks down one of the most important retirement decisions individuals face, which is when to begin claiming Social Security benefits. He walks through the key claiming ages, trade-offs between early and delayed benefits, and strategic considerations like spousal and survivor options that can significantly impact long-term outcomes. As retirement planning becomes more personalized, this perspective provides valuable insight into how individuals can make more informed, confident decisions about their financial future.

    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 When to Start Social Security Benefits first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    7 min
  • History, Please Repeat Yourself

    Policy Uncertainty and Market Performance

    Uncertainty is often viewed as a negative force in financial markets. Periods of geopolitical tension, unclear government policy, or unexpected global events tend to create volatility and investor anxiety. Today’s environment is no exception, with elevated uncertainty driven by international conflict, trade concerns, and shifting political dynamics. One way to measure this is through policy uncertainty indexes, which track how unclear or unpredictable government actions are at a given time. Historically, major spikes in uncertainty have occurred during events such as the aftermath of 9/11, the COVID-19 pandemic, and recent global trade disruptions. Current readings suggest uncertainty levels are once again elevated, approaching some of those past peaks. However, market behavior during these periods may be more surprising than expected. While markets generally prefer stability, historical data shows that periods of high policy uncertainty have often been followed by strong returns across multiple timeframes, including one month, three months, six months, and even twelve months. This suggests that markets may interpret policy-driven disruptions as temporary rather than structural. In many cases, uncertainty creates opportunity, as investors who remain disciplined can benefit from eventual stabilization and recovery. While past performance never guarantees future results, this trend reinforces the importance of maintaining a long-term perspective during volatile periods.

    Inflation, Consumer Prices, and What Comes Next

    Inflation remains one of the most closely watched economic indicators, directly impacting both consumers and investors. Recent economic data has painted a mixed picture, strong in some areas, yet still uncertain in others. The labor market, for example, has shown resilience. Job growth has exceeded expectations, and wage increases have remained steady, indicating underlying economic strength. However, these figures are inherently backward-looking, reflecting conditions that existed before the most recent geopolitical and economic developments. The more pressing question is how rising costs, particularly energy prices, will ripple through the broader economy. Gas prices, often one of the first visible signs of inflation, play a critical role in determining whether higher costs will spread to other goods and services. This dynamic is closely monitored through the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures changes in the price level of a basket of consumer goods and services. The key issue is not just whether prices are rising, but how quickly those increases are being passed on to consumers. Companies may choose to absorb higher costs temporarily, or they may pass them along, impacting inflation readings more directly. The upcoming CPI data will be especially important in determining the trajectory of inflation and, in turn, the direction of interest rates. Policymakers, including the Federal Reserve, will be watching closely as they evaluate whether current pressures are temporary or indicative of a more sustained trend.

    Seasonality and the Strength of April

    While uncertainty and inflation dominate headlines, historical market trends offer a more optimistic perspective, particularly when it comes to seasonality. Over the long term, the second quarter of the year has consistently delivered strong performance for equities, ranking just behind the fourth quarter. Within that period, April stands out as one of the most reliable months for market gains. Since 1950, April has been positive approximately 70% of the time for the S&P 500, making it the second-best month of the year historically. This pattern suggests that, despite short-term volatility, markets often find footing during this period. Several factors may contribute to this trend, including the inflow of tax refunds, renewed investor activity following the first quarter, and improving economic visibility as the year progresses. While seasonality alone should never drive investment decisions, it can provide a helpful tailwind when combined with other supportive factors. After a volatile start to the year, these historical patterns offer a measure of cautious optimism. If past trends hold, April and the broader second quarter could provide an opportunity for stabilization and potential growth.

    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 History, Please Repeat Yourself first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    5 min
  • The Rising Cost of Health Insurance

    On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ashley Page highlights the evolving landscape of employer health insurance in 2026, where rising costs are prompting companies to take a more proactive and strategic approach to benefits planning. He explores the key drivers behind these changes, including increased healthcare utilization, innovative treatments like GLP-1 therapies, and advancements in AI, while noting how many organizations are actively evaluating new providers and solutions. As the environment shifts, this perspective offers helpful context for how businesses can adapt and make more informed decisions 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 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 Health Insurance first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    5 min
  • Tax Refunds and Market Risks

    A Strong Tax Season Boosting Consumers

    As tax season passes its midpoint, a clear shift typically occurs, from early filers receiving refunds to later filers making payments. This year, refund data has been particularly strong, with total refunds nearing $200 billion and running approximately 19% higher than the same period last year. This surge in refunds is more than just a seasonal occurrence; it represents a meaningful injection of liquidity into the economy. In fact, by mid-March, the increase in consumer aid had already reached roughly $20 billion, marking one of the largest non-pandemic-related boosts on record. These funds are playing a key role in supporting consumer spending, especially amid external pressures such as rising energy costs and geopolitical tensions. In the short term, this influx of cash is helping offset inflationary strain. However, the true test will come after the April tax deadline, when this temporary support fades and underlying economic conditions become more apparent.

    Why the Bull Market Remains Intact

    Recent market volatility has prompted understandable concerns about whether the current bull market may be nearing its end. However, a deeper analysis suggests that the broader upward trend remains intact. Several key indicators that historically signal a market peak are notably absent. Unlike prior market tops in 2000 and 2007, there is no evidence of excessive investor euphoria. Equity inflows have not reached extreme levels, mergers and acquisitions activity remains moderate, and IPO markets are far from overheated. Additionally, real interest rates are still below levels typically seen before recessions, and corporate earnings revisions continue to trend positively. While fewer stocks are hitting new highs, this slowdown has not yet reached a level that raises significant concern. Taken together, these factors suggest that the current pullback is more likely a short-term fluctuation rather than the beginning of a sustained downturn. Ongoing analysis will be critical in determining whether conditions change in the weeks ahead.

    The 10-Year Treasury as a Market Signal

    One of the most important indicators of market health is the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury. This single data point offers insight into borrowing levels, investor demand, and broader economic expectations. A key threshold to watch is the 4.5% level. Historically, when the 10-year yield approaches or exceeds this level, equity markets—particularly the S&P 500—tend to experience downward pressure. This relationship reflects the inverse movement between bond prices and interest rates. Earlier this year, optimism around reduced government borrowing and stronger tax revenues pushed yields below 4% for the first time in over a year. However, recent geopolitical developments, including heightened tensions in the Middle East, have shifted expectations. Projected increases in defense spending, estimated at an additional $200 billion, are expected to expand the federal deficit and lead to higher Treasury issuance. This, in turn, puts upward pressure on yields and downward pressure on bond prices. While the 10-year yield has not yet crossed the critical 4.5% threshold, it has moved higher at a rapid pace. Encouragingly, recent data suggests yields may be stabilizing. Still, this remains a crucial metric to monitor, as it provides a real-time pulse on market sustainability.

    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 Tax Refunds and Market Risks first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    5 min
  • New Fed Chair – What Lies Ahead?

    On this week’s episode of Educational Insights, Ty Miller explores how newly appointed Federal Reserve chairs are often tested early in their tenure through heightened market volatility and pullbacks. Looking at past leaders from Paul Volcker to Jerome Powell, he highlights a consistent pattern of strong market performance leading up to confirmation, followed by notable corrections shortly after. As a new Fed chair steps into the role amid ongoing economic uncertainty, this historical perspective offers valuable context for what investors might expect in the months ahead.

    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.

    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 New Fed Chair – What Lies Ahead? first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    3 min
  • Fed Decisions, Escalation in War

    Navigating Uncertainty with Clarity

    In today’s rapidly shifting global environment, investors are faced with an overwhelming amount of information. From central bank policy decisions to geopolitical tensions, the volume and complexity of news can make it difficult to determine what truly matters for long-term financial planning. The focus, however, should remain on identifying the key variables that directly impact portfolios and market behavior. As global events unfold, particularly unexpected geopolitical conflicts, the investment landscape becomes even more complex. At the start of the year, few anticipated that escalating international tensions would coincide with critical monetary policy decisions. Energy prices, inflation expectations, and broader economic sentiment are all influenced by global conflict, and in turn, these elements shape how policymakers respond. For investors, staying informed and maintaining perspective is critical to navigating these uncertain conditions with confidence.

    Policy, Markets, and the Path Forward

    Recent market movements highlight the significant influence of policy decisions, particularly those made by the Federal Reserve. In its latest meeting, the Fed opted to hold interest rates steady, a widely anticipated move. However, the broader implications of that decision, along with ongoing leadership considerations, have added another layer of complexity to market expectations. Despite heightened attention on geopolitical tensions, the Fed’s policy stance has arguably had a more immediate impact on financial markets. Investors are increasingly recognizing that while global conflicts, especially in energy-sensitive regions, pose risks, the policy response to those conflicts may ultimately be more consequential. One of the primary concerns tied to geopolitical instability is the potential for rising oil and gas prices to reignite inflation. While this risk exists, there is a compelling argument that economic growth should be a more pressing concern. Historically, inflation trends have been closely tied to changes in the money supply, often with a lag of over a year. Current data suggests that money supply growth remains below trend, indicating that inflationary pressures may be more contained than feared. At the same time, prolonged geopolitical conflict can weigh on economic growth, productivity, and business confidence. This creates a delicate balancing act for policymakers. While short-term energy price spikes may influence sentiment, they may not necessarily translate into sustained inflation. Instead, the risk of slowing growth could become the more significant challenge. Market expectations currently reflect a cautious outlook, with little anticipation of near-term rate cuts and, in some cases, the possibility of rate hikes. However, there is a growing view that the Fed may need to reconsider this stance. Modest rate cuts later in the year could provide support for economic growth without significantly exacerbating inflation risks.

    From a corporate perspective, earnings remain a key area of focus. While energy companies may benefit from higher prices, it is important to monitor whether growth remains broad-based across sectors. Sustained earnings growth will be critical in maintaining market stability and investor confidence. Ultimately, the path forward remains uncertain. The interplay between geopolitical developments, energy markets, inflation, and monetary policy creates a complex environment for decision-making. While precise predictions are difficult, staying informed and adaptable will be essential. Even incremental shifts in policy expectations, such as signaling potential rate cuts, could have meaningful implications for markets in the months 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 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 Decisions, Escalation in War first appeared on Fi Plan Partners.

    5 min

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