Market Updates

Markets adjusted to a meaningful shift in September as the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in three years, challenging the widely held expectation that rates would continue moving lower. While economic growth continued at a moderate pace, the labor market remained resilient, consumer spending held up better than expected, and inflation,…

Markets continued to navigate competing signals in August as economic growth showed signs of slowing while inflation continued to ease. Despite concerns about softer job growth, weaker retail spending, and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, stocks remained resilient, supported by healthy corporate earnings and continued momentum around artificial intelligence. Investors are increasingly focused on a key question:…

In our June 2026 market update, Merit Financial Advisors’ Chief Investment Officer Brian Andrew, CFA®, breaks down the key forces shaping today’s market outlook, including a resilient U.S. economy, stubborn inflation, and rising expectations for a higher-for-longer interest rate environment. Despite signs of moderating growth, strong employment and steady consumer spending continue to support economic…

In our May 2026 market update, Merit Financial Advisors’ Chief Investment Officer Brian Andrew, CFA®, discusses the key forces shaping today’s market environment, including persistent inflation, higher interest rates, and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Despite these challenges, stock markets have remained resilient, supported by stronger-than-expected corporate earnings and an economy that continues…

By Brian Andrew, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer The first quarter of 2026 was defined by a sharp transition in market leadership and a meaningful increase in macro and geopolitical uncertainty. Entering the year, investors were positioned for a continuation of the disinflationary trend that characterized much of late 2025, with expectations for easing monetary policy…

In our March 2026 market update, Merit Financial Advisors’ Chief Investment Officer Brian Andrew, CFA®, examines a month shaped by rising geopolitical tensions, increased energy prices, and shifting expectations around inflation and interest rates. While markets remain modestly positive year-to-date, new risks tied to global conflict and economic moderation are influencing the stock market outlook…

In our February 2026 market update, Merit Financial Advisors’ Chief Investment Officer Brian Andrew, CFA®, breaks down the latest shifts in the stock market outlook for 2026, including renewed volatility, moderating inflation, and a significant rotation away from mega-cap technology stocks. Brian analyzes January’s sharp market sell-off, the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data showing…

By Brian Andrew, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer After two strong years in financial markets, 2026 begins at a moment of meaningful transition. The economic environment remains constructive, but many forces that propelled returns in 2023 – 2025 are evolving. This year could potentially reward investors who stay balanced, disciplined, and focused on companies and asset…

By Brian Andrew, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer The beginning of 2026 has already been interesting from a market perspective, resulting from the transformation happening in the stock and bond markets. Geopolitics have also played a role and we believe that will continue to be at the forefront of investors’ minds as the global order is…