Jade Chapman/Brien L. Smith CFP®

Why the Power Vacuum Hasn't Hit Home There’s an unusual situation unfolding in the Middle East right now. Even if the United States gains the upper hand, there may not be a clear path to resolution because there isn’t a stable counterpart to negotiate with. President Donald Trump had reportedly hoped to hold talks this week, but those plans fell through as Iran remains internally divided. That fragmentation, worsened by recent leadership disruptions, helps explain why the current ceasefire...

Despite the onset of war earlier this year, U.S. equity markets have shown remarkable resilience. The S&P 500 is down roughly five percent from its record high on January 27 and has held the 200-day moving average. Analysts are increasingly debating whether the market is discounting a short conflict or a longer drawn-out scenario. Early projections suggested a possible ten to fifteen percent correction, but recent market behavior indicates a more measured response from investors....

Tariffs Ruled Unconstitutional The Supreme Court (6–3) struck down broad tariffs enacted under IEEPA. This eliminates many of the sweeping tariffs tied to trade deficits and fentanyl concerns. Hundreds of billions in collected tariffs may need refunds. The White House could try alternative legal pathways, but likely with more limits. GDP Slowed in Q4 2025 GDP grew at 1.4%, below expectations (2.8%) and down from 4.4% in Q3. The slowdown was largely due to: Government spending cuts (shutdown...