Welcome back to Kitchen Table Finance with hosts Dave Shotwell and Nick Nonna! In this quarterly market update, Dave and Nick walk through the rollercoaster that was Q2 2025. From unexpected returns to ongoing uncertainty, this episode offers a grounded, no-nonsense take on what’s happening in the markets—and what it might mean for your financial plans.

Q2 Surprises: Despite a rocky start in April, markets closed the quarter on a strong note. A 60/40 portfolio returned an impressive 6.5% for the quarter.

https://youtu.be/Uf9SXXxUO0k

Large-cap U.S. stocks bounced back, with big names driving growth

Bonds held strong, even as the U.S. debt was downgraded

Inflation declined to 2.4% by May, despite tariff pressures

Labor and macroeconomic data remained solid

Trade policy and tariffs continue to create uncertainty

The U.S. credit downgrade in May raises long-term concerns

Ongoing geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine

Unclear full impact of tariffs on prices and inflation

The S&P 500 hit 9 all-time highs in the first half of 2025

A 9.5% single-day increase in April proves timing the market is nearly impossible

Real-world example: Dave shares how a small business passed along a 10% tariff on a product from Italy—and what that means for consumers and small businesses alike

Inflation uptick in June to 2.67% might signal future pressures

Even with market noise, surprises, and headlines, long-term planning remains the cornerstone of financial success. This episode reinforces why staying disciplined and focused on your plan is more important than reacting to short-term news.

Looking for guidance through the ups and downs of the market? It all starts with a Fit Meeting—a relaxed, no-pressure conversation to see if we’re the right financial partner for you.

Contact us at [email protected] or visit srbadvisors.com

Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more updates and episodes!