Volatility gripped markets in the first quarter of 2025 and the major stock indices saw declines as chaotic U.S. trade and tariff policies caused a steep plunge in business and consumer confidence, which raised concerns that economic growth would dramatically slow and corporate earnings growth would disappoint. Learn more about the key events of the quarter.

In the 2000 film, Meet the Parents, actor Robert De Niro played Jack Byrnes, a retired CIA officer and father to Pam Byrnes, the girlfriend of character Greg Fokker, played by actor Ben Stiller. In the film, Jack Byrnes describes to his potential son-in-law, Greg, the importance of being part of the family’s “Circle of Trust.”

Much like in the movie, we are continually assessing which investments qualify for our “Circle of Trust.” 2024 saw investments related to Artificial Intelligence (AI) as trusted members of that circle. AI investments in semiconductors and software joined power suppliers (think utilities) and power management companies as winners in 2024 as the artificial intelligence theme saw robust investor interest in what is perceived as the next great frontier of investment opportunity. Learn more.

This was an emotionally charged election season, wasn’t it? Whether you are elated or depressed with the election results, now is an especially important time to make sure you are making investment decisions based on facts rather than emotions.

U.S. presidential elections can cause ripples, and even waves, in the stock market. Like any other event that produces market volatility, changing your investment strategy in response to the political news of the day or the market’s short- term ups and downs have shown to do more harm then good. Here’s a look at how elections impact the market and how
to stay invested for the long-term in spite of short-term volatility.