Took vs. Baggins

Took vs. Baggins

OVERVIEW   Markets were mixed last week. Large-cap growth struggled, pulling the S&P 500 down 0.63% and the NASDAQ lower by 1.62%. The S&P 100 also declined 1.00%, highlighting some pressure in the biggest names. In contrast, more cyclical and...
Testing the Fed

Testing the Fed

  The Fed went ahead and cut rates again this week. It was mostly expected. The bigger question is what comes next. Looking into next year, it is not clear how many additional cuts are actually on the table. Inflation remains above the Fed’s comfort zone, and...
As the VIX Turns

As the VIX Turns

  In the past we’ve talked about volatility and the different ways of measuring it. The VIX, or Wall Street’s “Fear Index,” is a popular measure because it tells us how much investors expect the stock market to swing over the coming month. It measures implied,...
Financial Focus – December 10th, 2025

Financial Focus – December 10th, 2025

Year-end planning is crunch time, and this week’s Financial Focus walks through the key moves to consider before the calendar flips. From Roth conversions and retirement contributions to tax withholding and beneficiary checkups, Nate Kreinbrink explains what to review now to avoid surprises later.