The markets have been navigating some turbulent waters recently, and with the added discussions around tariffs, it's understandable to have questions.

We're here to provide clarity and help you understand the bigger picture. The current landscape is driven by several interconnected factors:

Tariff risks | New tariff concerns are adding to existing inflation worries and contributing to market volatility. When investors react emotionally to news headlines, they are trying to predict an uncertain future, which leads to market swings.

Economic uncertainty | Concerns about inflation, interest rates, and overall economic growth are creating unease. Specifically, uncertainty about the pace of inflation reduction is leading to investor caution.

Interest rate concerns | The potential for further interest rate adjustments is weighing on sentiment. Higher interest rates can slow economic growth by increasing borrowing costs for businesses and individuals.

Geopolitical events | Global events, including geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, introduce uncertainty and can trigger market reactions.

The impact and implications of tariffs

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods. They are used to protect domestic industries and as a negotiating tool in international trade.

Upside | They can protect domestic industries and generate government revenue.

Downside | They can lead to higher prices for consumers, supply chain disruptions, and retaliatory measures from other countries.

Current situation | Trade discussions and tariff implementations are ongoing, particularly involving major trading partners. These developments may contribute to market fluctuations and potential impacts on corporate earnings.

How tariffs affect the markets

Tariff concerns contribute to market volatility by:

• Adding to inflation worries.
• Creating uncertainty about future trade relationships.
• Potentially disrupting supply chains and impacting corporate earnings.

It's important to note…

• Market volatility is a normal part of investing.
• Corrections are a normal re-evaluation of stock prices.
• We have factored potential economic shifts, including those caused by tariffs, into your financial plan.
• We are focused on your long-term financial goals and have built a diversified portfolio designed to weather these fluctuations.

What you should do

Stay committed to your long-term financial plan and remember that diversification is key to managing risk.

What we are doing

We are closely monitoring key economic indicators, analyzing potential impacts of tariff changes on specific sectors, and staying informed on geopolitical developments. We will provide timely insights and adjustments to your financial strategy as necessary.

If you have any questions about the current economic climate, tariffs, your accounts, or this email, please do not hesitate to reach out. We always appreciate hearing from you.