The Fed’s first rate cut of 2025 signals a shift in policy as labor market weakness becomes the central focus. While equities—especially tech stocks—rallied, inflation and tariff risks remain unresolved. Markets expect further rate cuts this year, but timing will hinge on upcoming jobs and inflation data.

The S&P 500 hit a new all-time high on September 11, fueled by optimism around potential interest rate cuts despite persistent inflation and labor market pressures. With rate reductions anticipated later this year, investors remain focused on economic data that could shape future monetary policy and market performance.

What are tariffs, what is a tariff war, and how do tariffs affect everyday expenses? Get answers here, including ideas for how to respond.

Explore the latest economic insights with Aya Yoshioka in this episode of 7 Market Movers. From strong job growth and easing inflation to fiscal policy impacts and bond market trends—get the key takeaways shaping markets in 2025.

Discover why market volatility isn't unprecedented and how history offers valuable lessons for investors. Learn why disciplined, long-term strategies outperform market timing and how quality investments rebound over time.

Explore how new U.S. tariffs on Canada and Mexico are impacting markets, inflation, and Fed policy. Get expert insights from our Investment Management Team on economic risks, interest rate outlooks, and portfolio strategy in a volatile environment.

First, consider the data: After years of rising inflation, price growth began to slow by the end of 2024; however, the cost of goods and services remained high—up 2.7% compared to the year before.

In this 2025 Market Outlook webinar, Wealth Enhancement’s Jim Cahn, Doug Huber, and Aya Yoshioka review last year’s strong S&P 500 performance and discuss key market drivers for 2025, including inflation, interest rates, and new tariffs.

In this episode of “Investment Management Foundations,” Ayako Yoshioka, Portfolio Consulting Director at Wealth Enhancement, explains what the Fed’s interest rate cut on September 18, 2024 could mean for investors.