The S&P 500 has reached new all-time highs following a volatile stretch driven by geopolitical developments, easing oil market concerns, and strong corporate earnings. While headlines have focused on the Middle East and energy prices, underlying fundamentals and broad diversification continue to support investor outcomes.

Rising gasoline prices are more than just a frustration at the pump—they’re a signal of broader economic shifts. As energy costs climb amid geopolitical tensions, consumers, inflation, and market expectations are all feeling the ripple effects.

Stock market headlines are scary right now — but they always are. Before you make any moves with your portfolio, look at 75 years of S&P 500 data. From the 1970s stagflation crisis to the 2008 financial collapse to a global pandemic, the market has averaged +11.7% annually with an average intra-year drop of just -13.6%. The Rule of 72 says your money doubles every 6 years at that rate. Here's what the data — and Dave Ramsey's Baby Steps — say to do right now.

In this Q1 2026 market recap, Chief Operating Officer & Co-Chief Investment Officer Summit Puri breaks down the impact of geopolitical tensions, rising oil prices, and economic uncertainty on global markets—and what it means for long-term investors.

Most people rely on home and auto insurance to protect their assets—but what happens when those limits aren’t enough? Umbrella insurance provides an added layer of liability coverage that helps safeguard your savings, investments, and future income from unexpected claims or lawsuits.

Oil prices surging above $100 and the rapid evolution of AI are driving one of the most significant sector rotations in recent years. Discover how energy, technology, and defensive sectors are reshaping portfolios—and what it means for long-term investors.

From powering artificial intelligence to enabling everyday digital services, data centers are transforming the U.S. economy. As capital investment surges and productivity accelerates across industries, these facilities are emerging as a major force behind GDP growth—and a key theme investors can’t afford to ignore.

Many business owners assume a 401(k) plan is too expensive to start—but recent tax credits may significantly reduce the cost. Associate Financial Advisor David Gearhart explains how startup, employer contribution, and automatic enrollment credits can help businesses provide valuable retirement benefits while lowering their tax burden.

Interest rates influence everything from borrowing costs to bond prices and stock valuations. Understanding how Federal Reserve rate changes ripple through the economy can help investors stay disciplined and focused on long-term financial goals.

Inflation has reshaped household budgets and long-term financial planning, with the cost of living rising nearly 20% since 2021. This article explores practical budget adjustments and investment strategies designed to help protect purchasing power and build resilience during prolonged inflationary periods.

Gold and silver are grabbing headlines as investors seek shelter from inflation, volatility, and global uncertainty. While precious metals can play a limited role during turbulent times, they don’t generate income or long-term growth—and their prices are often driven by speculation. In this article, we explore the recent rise of gold and silver, weigh their pros and cons, and explain why true diversification through productive assets remains the most reliable path to lasting

Gold and silver have surged to record highs, reigniting investor interest in precious metals. But strong recent returns don’t automatically mean they belong at the center of your portfolio. In this article, we explore what’s driving today’s rally, the historical role of precious metals, and how gold and silver may fit into a diversified, long-term investment strategy.

It’s that time of year again, benefits enrollment season! Financial Advisor Andrew Young gives an overview of the various benefits you may access through your employer-sponsored benefits program. As shared in the article, these benefits make up approximately 30% of your compensation, so understanding how to use them to their full potential is of extreme benefit to you. (Pun intended!)

With the Federal Reserve’s recent announcement that is will drop interest rates, many investors are asking how a rate change could impact their portfolios. One of the most important — yet often misunderstood — relationships in finance is that between interest rates and bond prices. In this article, we’ll break down how they interact and why changes in rates can directly affect the value of your bond holdings.

One item that Dave Ramsey consistently hits on is the importance of a side hustle to increase income and better reach your financial goals. Side hustles come in all shapes and sizes: food delivery, lemonade stands, woodworking, buying and selling trading cards, and/or starting a lawn care business. The possibilities are virtually endless.

In July of 2025, Chief Financial Planning Officer Tim Hilterman wrote an article highlighting some of the changes to the tax law in the recent “Big Beautiful Bill.” In this article, we’re going below deck and exploring one of those changes in more detail – the Senior Tax Bonus.

Preparing for college goes beyond dorm shopping—it’s about finalizing paperwork, having key conversations, and setting a strong financial foundation. From budgeting and insurance to emotional readiness, families can ease the transition. With the One Big Beautiful Bill Act reshaping college financing, thoughtful planning is crucial. Whitaker-Myers offers tools, guidance, and consultations to help students start college with confidence.

A tax refund isn’t a bonus—it’s proof you overpaid the IRS. By understanding your paycheck—earnings, pre-tax deductions, taxes, and net pay—you can adjust your federal withholding and keep more money in your pocket each month. For example, one couple discovered they’d loaned the government $7,000 interest-free. With the right strategy, that money could boost savings, investments, or debt payoff. Take control of your paycheck with smart planning and professional guidance.

ETFs offer investors diversification, liquidity, low costs, transparency, tax efficiency, and easy entry with small investments. Beyond traditional stocks and bonds, new ETF structures now provide access to asset classes like Private Credit and Cryptocurrency, once limited to wealthy investors. These features make ETFs a powerful tool for building wealth, managing risk, and customizing portfolios to meet financial goals.

Real estate can be a powerful tool for portfolio diversification, offering passive income, appreciation potential, and tax benefits. Unlike stocks and bonds, it provides stability during market volatility and allows greater control through active management. While risks like illiquidity and tenant challenges exist, strategic planning can help mitigate them. For many investors, real estate is a smart way to build wealth and strengthen financial security.