Earnings season is wrapping up, and the results are promising. FactSet reports that 81% of S&P 500 companies surpassed earnings expectations, with 58% raising their full-year 2025 earnings guidance. The “beat and raise” trend has been music to investors’ ears. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review, where we break down the latest market insights. This week, we also explore why some people claim Social Security earlier than recommended, tackle the question of how much insurance you really need, and check in with Todd Voit, Chief Investment Strategist, for his expert perspective.

The housing market grapples with low builder confidence due to high mortgage rates and regulatory costs, alongside rising starts, falling permits, and high cancellations. In our Week-in-Review, Brian Jacobsen discusses these housing challenges, followed by separate insights on equity compensation and the rise in 'gray divorce.'

Inflation seems to have gone down to a manageable level. Does the Fed agree? And does the 4% rule still apply? Business sales transitions are an opportunity to reset your plan. 

The year started with major uncertainties in tax, trade, and Federal Reserve policies, which are now mostly resolved. The focus has shifted to how the economy will adapt. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen share insights in our Week-in-Review. We’ll also discuss concerns about using a 401(k) as an emergency fund, what qualifies as financial planning (and what doesn’t), remarriage and estate planning, and more.

Rather than a trade war, which implies retaliation, we'll examine the latest trade policy developments and analyze Friday's jobs report. Our ongoing coverage of the One Big Beautiful Bill continues with insights on its tax implications and three key considerations for parents. Additionally, we'll discuss planning for blended families, essential pre-retirement questions, and a special segment on Generation X.

The markets stay hot. Brian discusses the difference between emotions and goals. The Big Beautiful Act changes Obamacare premiums. Understanding the dollar. What does it mean to be asset rich and cash poor? Impacts of the Big Beautiful act on charitable giving. 

Despite challenging weather, the economy could gain momentum once the tariff "deadline" passes, with the One Big Beautiful Bill’s tax incentives spurring investment and growth. Join Brian Jacobsen for our Week-in-Review. Plus, meet the newest member of the Annex Private Client team, explore six key benefits of trusts, learn how Annex supports clients planning a part-time retirement, and discover ways grandparents can financially support their grandchildren.

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index dipped slightly in July, with "taxes" emerging as the top concern for small businesses—though recent policy changes may ease this burden. Plus, the NY Fed’s June survey reveals year-ahead inflation expectations have cooled to 3%. Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen present our Week-in-Review. Learn more about our portfolio review process, key person insurance, and how to plan for retirement without a 401k. 

Economists anticipated a slowdown in job growth due to uncertainties surrounding trade and fiscal policies, but the data tells a different story. Brian Jacobsen shares insights in our Week-in-Review. This episode also covers key topics, including the steps to selling a business, the role of a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst at Annex, strategies for successfully transitioning ownership of a family vacation property, and tips for dividing passion assets to prevent family conflicts.

The Fed initially suggested that tariffs would gradually raise prices while slowing growth more gradually. However, recent trends show growth declining faster than inflation is rising. In our Week-in-Review, Dave Spano and Brian Jacobsen discuss this shift and other key topics. The episode also concludes our Financial Jargon series, explores the 4% rule, reviews Warren Buffett’s perspective on inheritance, and highlights connections between better health and lower taxes.