Jeremiah "J" Johnston

06/18/2024

Better than expected inflation data has investors once again expecting a soft landing. Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at why the path forward may not be as smooth as many think.

The latest inflation data added fuel to an already surging market. In this week’s Market Commentary, we look at why investors may be wise to temper their enthusiasm.

06/11/2024

Your opinions about the strength of the job market may come down to which employment report you read. Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at the discrepancies between two leading reports and weighs in on how the disconnect in reports complicates the Fed’s decision on rates.

Is the job market red hot or showing signs of cooling? Last week’s employment data suggests both. In this week’s Market Commentary, we look at why getting an accurate read on the employment picture may be a challenge for the Fed.

06/04/2024

The latest data shows the disinflationary process is progressing at a snail’s pace. Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at why the modest improvement in prices pressures is unlikely to satisfy the Federal Reserve.

The latest inflation data showed gradual improvement. We look at why the pace of disinflation is still a concern.

05/30/2024

The latest economic data cast further doubt on the timing of potential rate cuts. In this week’s Market Commentary, Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at why investors may be underestimating the chance of a bumpy road ahead for the economy.

Are investors overestimating the likelihood of a soft landing? We look at challenges that remain for the economy and Federal Reserve.

05/21/2024

Higher interest rates appear to be taking a toll on the economy. In this week’s Market Commentary, Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at whether the Fed can get inflation under control before the weak economy dips into a recession.

With higher rates clearly impacting the economy, is inflation falling fast enough to allow the Fed to avoid a recession?

05/14/2024

In the Weekly Market Commentary, Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at why faltering consumer sentiment could pose another challenge to the economy.

How does the latest tumble in consumer optimism fit into the economic picture? Get more in our Weekly Market Commentary.

05/07/2024

In the Weekly Market Commentary, Chief Investment Officer Brent Schutte looks at how recent conflicting wage data highlights another wrinkle for the Fed to contend with.

Look for more volatility in inflation as we move later into the business cycle. Get more in our Weekly Market Commentary.

05/05/2024

You can’t predict the future, but you can stay prepared with disability insurance. Let’s chat today and make a plan for the unexpected.

05/04/2024

Aside from mortgages, there is one source of debt that stands above the rest. Reach out and I can help you with managing and minimizing your debt. In the meantime, find out what you can do in our new article “4 Things to Ask Your Credit Card Company Right Now.” http://spr.ly/6185jJ9K3

*Planning and Progress Study, 2024.

05/03/2024

This month, I am celebrating Heritage Month by honoring one of the many trailblazers in the community, Anna May Wong. She was the first Chinese American film star and an international style icon, whose powerful words and legacy continue to inspire us. Join me in recognizing her, and all the other AAPI innovators and their remarkable contributions, during this incredible month.

05/03/2024

If saving for college is one of your family’s aspirations, reach out if you have questions about how to work this goal into your budget.

It’s a great option to save for college expenses—and the earlier you get started the better. Learn the details to get started.

05/02/2024

Pack your suitcase, your hard-earned savings are your ticket to your next adventure. Where are you jetting off to? Reach out and let’s make it happen.