“You Retire Once… I Help People Retire Everyday”
Timeless Lessons and a Resilient Path into 2026
As we turn the page on 2025, investors were once again reminded that markets rarely move in a straight line as last year was real time proof. Despite widespread fears of recession, political uncertainty, and sharp bouts of volatility, global markets delivered strong and broad-based returns. This pastyear reinforced the importance of discipline, diversification, and staying focused on fundamentals rather than headlines
One of the clearest takeaways from 2025 was the danger of consensus thinking. While U.S. equities performed well, international and emerging markets quietly outpaced expectations, highlighting the value of global diversification. The year also underscored why politics and investing don’t mix—markets repeatedly shrugged off geopolitical shocks, instead responding to earnings growth, interest rates, capital flows, and investor sentiment.
Looking ahead, the outlook for 2026 is constructive, though not without volatility. Economic growth is expected to moderate rather than contract, supported by easing monetary policy, fiscal spending, and resilient corporate profits. Earnings remain the cornerstone of this cycle, with S&P 500 earnings growth projected to remain solid as profit margins hover near cycle highs. Artificial intelligence continues to act as a genuine economic driver, with opportunities broadening beyond a narrow group of mega-cap names.
Important to note, with this year being a mid-term election year - volatility should be expected—but history shows that pullbacks often create opportunity, not permanent setback. Staying invested, diversified, and disciplined remains the most effective way to navigate an evolving market cycle.
Click the link below to access the full edition of this month’s Market Perspectives to provide you deeper insight, charts, and historical context to help separate noise from signal—and keep long-term plans on track.
Thanks for reading. AP
