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This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1769718069044{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on January 21st, 2025

The Bullet Points for February are:

1. Tax Document Reminder: Schwab should produce 1099s for tax reporting by the end of February unless there is an unforeseen problem. Paper copies will be mailed, while digital copies can be accessed through the Schwab Alliance portal. If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or text at 830.609.6986.

2. AI Market Share: According to consulting company McKinsey, AI has now been adopted by roughly 72% of companies. Studies project that this will continue to increase, boosting productivity and positively impacting GDP. While Nvidia continues to lead the way, technology companies that are in our investment models have gained market share.

3. Cost of Living: While many families continue to navigate a higher cost of living compared to a few years ago, recent data is encouraging. Overall inflation has been within expectations, mortgage rates declined around 1% in 2025, auto loan rates are lower, and oil prices are consistently below $60 a barrel for the first time in almost five years. A new Federal Reserve chairman coming in May 2026 could bring even lower interest rates, but this could and probably will weaken the dollar and cause inflation by printing more money.

4. Misunderstanding CD Interest Rates: There is significant confusion about short-term CDs (less than one year) and the return they are really paying, since interest rates are all advertised on an annual basis. For example, a 3-month CD advertises a 4% annual rate, even though it’s only a 3-month CD. If you take the 4% yearly rate advertised, divide it by 12, and multiply it by the 3 months the CD is for, the CD’s actual return is approximately 1% NOT 4% because it’s not for a whole year. In a declining interest rate environment, investors must look for competitive interest rates on their cash reserves, but be wary of high advertised annual returns on short-term CDs, as they are not held for a year to realize those returns. We are here to help you better understand CD rates with just a text or phone call away.

5. Continuing Education & Scriptures: This month’s schedule for Christian Financial Perspectives is listed below, along with our Scripture for the month:

As we navigate changing economic conditions and evolving markets this year, remember that biblical wisdom combined with diligent planning remains the foundation for faithful stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to us.

If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.

Bob Barber, CWS®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor & President

Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor

Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor

Christian Financial Advisors®[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Written by the Christian Financial Advisors® Team

Matthew 22:37-38 “He said to him, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and most important command.'”

As we step into a new year, it’s natural to reflect on what matters most, and therefore, we are stepping away from our normal focus of highlighting topics from Christian Financial Perspectives, and instead share some insights into what guides our team. At Christian Financial Advisors®, we believe the start of a new year offers a valuable opportunity to remember the foundations that guide us—and to invite you to consider the principles that guide you.

When asked to identify the greatest commandment, Jesus answered with clarity and conviction. In the same way, we believe it’s important for you to know exactly what drives our work on your behalf. We’re not financial advisors who happen to be Christians; we’re Christians who happen to be financial advisors. That distinction shapes everything we do.

Our Mission is to “Provide the best Biblical advice and investment management for Christian investors to honor God during their careers, retirement, and beyond”. We believe this mission is supported by 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” Financial decisions—whether large or small—present daily opportunities to glorify Him.

Our Vision is “Every Christian stewarding their resources to honor God and expand God’s Kingdom for generations”. This vision looks beyond today to the generations that follow. “Proverbs 13:22 reminds us, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his grandchildren, but the sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.” True biblical stewardship considers not just our own needs, but the legacy we leave behind.

Our Core Values anchor our daily work.

As you consider the year ahead, we encourage you to reflect: What principles guide your financial decisions? What legacy do you hope to leave for your great grandchildren? These are questions worth pondering as you steward the resources God has entrusted to you. We count it a privilege to walk alongside you in that calling.

Thank you for reading![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”#999999″][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text css=””]About This Communication

This communication will provide some of the highlights of the Christian Financial Perspectives show in an accessible ‘postcard type format’ each month that can be read in less than 3 minutes.

The views expressed represent the opinion of Christian Financial Advisors®®. The views are subject to change and are not intended as a forecast or guarantee of future results. This material is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice and is not intended as an endorsement of any specific investment. Stated information is derived from proprietary and nonproprietary sources that have not been independently verified for accuracy or completeness. While Christian Financial Advisors®® believes the information to be accurate and reliable, we do not claim or have responsibility for its completeness, accuracy, or reliability. Accordingly, such statements are inherently speculative as they are based on assumptions that may involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investing in equity securities involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. While equities may offer the potential for greater long-term growth than most debt securities, they generally have higher volatility. Past performance is not indicative of future results.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1766521791383{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on December 22nd, 2025

The Bullet Points for January are:

1. 2025 Tax Documents: As done in previous years, Schwab should produce 1099s for tax reporting by the end of February unless there is an unforeseen problem. Paper copies will be mailed, while digital copies can be accessed through the Schwab Alliance portal. If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or text at 830.609.6986.

2. BRI Portfolio Returns: For the third year in a row, as of this writing, 2025 returns have exceeded our benchmarks for all “in-house” Biblically Responsible Managed Portfolios. Currently, many economic indicators suggest that the markets are overvalued; therefore, we are presently taking a defensive stance in our positions, holding a sizable amount in fixed income across all portfolios to capitalize on any potential major pullbacks.

3. Oil & Gas Prices: In December, Oil hit $56 per barrel for the first time in nearly 5 years, resulting in the lowest gas prices at the pump since May 2021. Crude oil inventories are suggesting a softening in demand.

4. Low Consumer Sentiment: Consumer Sentiment reports released in December from November showed the lowest readings since June of 2022, indicating economic challenges could be ahead.

5. Interest Rates: The Fed lowered short-term interest rates in December for the sixth time since August 2024 for economic reasons. While many believe this affects long-term mortgage rates, it doesn’t, as they are based on the longer 10-year Treasury rate, which can actually increase when short-term rates decrease as happened in the past. Lower short-term rates hurt savers, fixed-income investors, weakens the dollar, creates inflation, encourages greater debt, and are a terrible recipe for long-term financial success.

6. 2026 Financial Goals: Many people never hit their financial goals because they don’t write them down and look at them daily. Procrastination is, by far, the number one reason for financial failure. We encourage you to write down at least one to two financial goals for 2026 on paper and place them where you see them daily. Aim for nothing, and that is precisely what you will hit. People don’t plan to fail; they fail to plan. Check out our episode on successful goal-setting by visiting cfa.lc/goals.

7. Continuing Education & Scripture: This month’s schedule for Christian Financial Perspectives.

As we step into 2026 together, we’re here to help you turn fresh starts into faithful financial progress.

If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.

Bob Barber, CWS®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor & President

Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor

Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor

Christian Financial Advisors®[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1764695186292{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on November 25th, 2025

The Bullet Points for December are:

    1. Year-End Tax Planning and Deadlines:: Year-end tax planning deadlines are fast approaching. The target is to complete all year-end RMDs, QCDs, Roth conversions, and other monetary transactions by December 12, and all clerical items by December 22. Our office is closed beginning on Christmas Eve. It’s crucial to implement year-end tax strategies now, as many cannot be completed after January 1st. These include maximizing qualified plan contributions (401(k), TSP, 403(b), etc.), making charitable donations, paying property tax bills, and other eligible expenses. Remember, itemized deductions must surpass the standard deduction to count: $31,500 for married couples (plus $12,000 for eligible seniors), and $15,750 for single filers (plus $6,000 for eligible seniors) in 2025. Contact us to discuss year-end tax strategies specific to your situation.
    2. Home Foreclosures: Total home foreclosures rose 19% in October compared to October 2024. The rising cost of property taxes and home insurance, particularly in states like Texas and Florida, has strained homeowners navigating monthly budgets. Continued increases in this area could significantly impact the US economy..
    3. Tariffs in Supreme Court: The Supreme Court will begin hearing arguments on President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs on November 5. While this continues to be a focal point of the market, it is very likely that a ruling is not announced for several weeks or even months. Traditionally, the Supreme Court communicates decisions on the most complex cases right before their summer recess in April or May. In the meantime, inflation risks remain, as many companies pass along the tariff costs to consumers.
    4. AI Stocks Waver: Early November brought a general decline in AI technology companies, as investors questioned if they are overpriced. While concerns about an AI bubble have surfaced, AI has infiltrated daily routines worldwide and is here to stay. However, prominent AI companies are facing increased competition, bringing their valuations into question.
    5. Equity Allocation: In September, based on 20+ market indicators, we took profits and lowered equity positions by 25% in our moderate, growth, and aggressive growth portfolios. We maintain an appropriate equity allocation, but this strategy enables us to purchase equities at favorable prices when opportunities arise. Patience is prudent while waiting for these opportunities. .
    6. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
      • Ep 236 – Annual Year-End Tax Strategies – 12/09/2025
      • Ep 237 – Unique Giving Strategies – 12/23/2025
      • Isaiah 9:6 – “For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”

We hope all of you have a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.

Bob Barber, CWS®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor & President

Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor

Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor

Christian Financial Advisors®[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Written by Bob Barber

The Tenth Commandment

Exodus 20:17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house… or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

Hebrews 13:5 “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have…”

In our country, comparing and coveting have unfortunately become mainstream. We are bombarded with advertisers on TV and social media trying to convince us that we are not good enough unless we have what they are offering. Examples include: needing to entirely remodel a kitchen that already functions well, driving a newer, more luxurious automobile like your neighbor may have, or achieving better returns in a portfolio, regardless of risk, Christian values, and goals.

Let’s examine the key differences and identify the flaws behind comparing investment returns.

Key Differences between individuals and families include:

As you can see, investment returns are only one small part of the total equation. What really matters is your probability of success in meeting ALL of your personal goals, wants, and needs.

Comparing investment returns with a friend or family member can be flawed and may even lead to envy, which is prohibited by the 10th Commandment found in Exodus 20:17. Therefore, be cautious about doing so. Instead, focus on your unique probability of success as a Christian rather than how you measure up against others, and answer these three basic and spiritual questions. All financial decisions for a Christian are spiritual ones:[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner css=”.vc_custom_1763055466834{padding-top: 35px !important;padding-bottom: 35px !important;}”][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″ css=”.vc_custom_1763055381163{padding-top: 15px !important;padding-right: 15px !important;padding-bottom: 15px !important;padding-left: 15px !important;background-color: #1e73be !important;}”][vc_column_text css=””]

Who owns it all?

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How much is enough?

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How much can I give away?

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For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.- 2 Timothy 1:7

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This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1762276351416{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on October 22nd, 2025

The Bullet Points for November are:

    1. New Client Portal: Starting this month, the legacy client portal that we used for years, eMoney, has been replaced with a new platform called Right Capital. Right Capital is becoming a ‘gold standard’ in the financial planning industry, and the feedback has been extremely positive thus far from clients who have begun using it. All clients received an email over the summer to register for access to Right Capital, but we are here if you need assistance.
    2. RMD Deadline Approaching: Clayton and Mariah have reached out to all clients who have a remaining Required Minimum Distribution to satisfy. If you have not done so already, please reply to inform them of your plans. We strongly prefer to complete all RMDs by early December to meet the year-end deadline.
    3. Tariffs in Supreme Court: The Supreme Court will begin hearing arguments on President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs on November 5. While this continues to be a focal point of the market, it is very likely that a ruling is not announced for several weeks or even months. Traditionally, the Supreme Court communicates decisions on the most complex cases right before their summer recess in April or May. In the meantime, inflation risks remain, as many companies pass along the tariff costs to consumers.
    4. Budgeting for Christmas: Remember that Jesus is the reason for the season, and do not give in to the idols of mammon and materialism that are so prevalent in American culture. According to LendingTree, 36% of Americans took on debt with Christmas shopping last year. Early planning and budgeting will set you up to avoid the debt trap and be the best steward of God’s provision during this time of year.
    5. Government Shut-Down: The US Government shutdown on October 1, and as of this writing, has not yet reopened. As Congress attempts to come to an agreement, the stock market is without some economic data that it is used to having in order to make decisions. During times of uncertainty and volatility, it is important to stick to your objective long-term financial plan.
    6. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
      • Ep 234 – Three Money Questions Every Christian Needs to Answer – 11/11/2025
      • Ep 235 – The Four Uses of Money – 11/25/2025
      • Psalm 37:11 – “But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace”

If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.

Bob Barber, CWS®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor & President

Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor

Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor

Christian Financial Advisors®[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Written by Bob Barber

Proverbs 20:21 An inheritance gained prematurely will not be blessed ultimately.

An old financial planning adage warns: “Shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations.” Generation one creates wealth, generation two lives off it, and generation three spends the rest. The team at Christian Financial Advisors® has observed this pattern play out in many families. While this cycle has persisted for centuries, it doesn’t have to continue.

The biggest mistake families make is dividing wealth among heirs immediately upon death instead of keeping it together and distributing only earnings—not principal—to following generations. Wealth creates wealth through compound interest, but when split up, it loses the compounding power of large sums.

Dangers of Leaving a Large Inheritance

  1. Rapid depletion – Inheritances are typically spent within 2-3 years, regardless of amount.
  2. Behavioral problems – Large unearned windfalls can trigger speculative investing, create a false sense of accomplishment, and compound irresponsible behaviors (e.g. overspending or substance abuse).
  3. Lack of financial wisdom – Heirs who haven’t built wealth slowly often don’t understand how to manage or preserve it, making them fraud targets and removing their motivation to work.
  4. Generational disconnect – Without understanding the sacrifice behind the wealth, heirs may fail to respect or properly steward the resources. If heirs don’t work or develop their own financial discipline, then their heirs will exacerbate the 2nd generation’s problems.

The Correct Way to Structure a Large Inheritance

  1. Establish a trust or limited partnership that distributes wealth slowly over time while keeping it together to maintain compounding power.
  2. Conduct family financial meetings before death to ensure heirs understand how the wealth was built and equip them with sound financial principles.
  3. Implement pre-inheritance experiences using Matthew 25:14-30 (the Parable of the Talents) by giving heirs portions while you’re alive to observe their stewardship.
    “Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much, and whoever is unrighteous in very little is also unrighteous in much.” Luke 16:10
  4. Design incentive-based distributions and appoint a corporate trustee. Distributions should match heirs’ savings, reward sound money principles, and give at the same measured pace the wealth was accumulated. These provisions should be detailed in writing for the corporate trustee to follow.

Wisdom must be inherited before a financial inheritance.

Proverbs 17:16 Why does a fool have money in his hand with no intention of buying wisdom?

Wealth builders worked, saved, and sacrificed—which taught them to respect wealth. Shouldn’t heirs do the same? Wealth in the hands of a fool compounds foolishness. Wealth in the hands of the wise compounds wisdom.

Want to learn more about setting up an inheritance for multi-generational success?

Schedule a meeting online at cfa.lc/qwa or call/text us at 830-609-6986. Appointments are available in-person, by phone, and by video.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1759441416851{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on September 23rd, 2025

The Bullet Points for October are:

    1. RMD Season is Here: If you have not heard from Clayton or Mariah about your RMD this year, you will hear from them shortly. We prefer to complete all RMDs by early December to meet the year-end deadline.
    2. Fed Lowers Interest Rates: On September 17th, the Federal Funds short-term interest rate decreased to 4.25%. Ironically, the 10-year treasury rate increased the same day, just like last year, after a short-term decrease. The 10-year treasury is generally what determines mortgage rates; therefore, the Fed can lower the short-term interest rate, but it may not affect mortgage rates and can actually have the opposite effect. Lowering the short-term rate also hurts savers who use CDs and money market accounts. On the other hand, it lowers the cost of borrowing for many small companies, which should help earnings going forward.
    3. Cash as an Investment Strategy: Occasionally, when markets get overheated, much like a car engine that has been running at too high an RPM for a while is about to overheat, we back off for a while to allow the markets/engine to cool down. This is a contrarian move from the “herd” mentality, where everyone always wants to get in at the peak of the markets versus the bottom. This cash allows us to buy low and sell high, and taking the cash raised from a portfolio takes away the opportunities that eventually always present themselves. Bob has seen this repeatedly in his 41 years of investment experience, so the next time you see a lot of cash in a money market account in a portfolio we manage for you, please know there is a reason behind it. It’s all part of a long-term investment strategy.
    4. Tariffs in the Supreme Court: The legality of President Trump’s global tariff policies will be decided in the Supreme Court, with a hearing scheduled for November 5. The decision could affect our country’s stock market, global economies, and the administration’s longer-term plans for the United States.
    5. Biblically Responsible Investing: Support the good, avoid the bad. In the last few years, one of the biggest companies on Wall Street has been Nvidia for its ongoing development of Artificial Intelligence. But, did you know Nvidia knowingly violates biblical principles through its sponsorship of sex changes, hormone therapy visits, hormonal shots, voice lessons, and the LGBTQ+ agenda? It goes above and beyond legal requirements to both celebrate and sponsor these services, which are destructive and immoral. Scripture calls us to separate ourselves from sin and companies like this; therefore, we strive to avoid them.

      2 Corinthians 6:17 –       Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord; do not touch any unclean thing, and I will welcome you.
    6. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
      • Ep 232 – 10/14/25 – The Dangers of Large Inheritances
      • Ep 233 – 10/28/25 – Stewarding Your Child’s Education
      • Ephesians 4:29 – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.

Bob Barber
Senior Wealth Advisor & President

Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®
Senior Wealth Advisor

Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor

Christian Financial Advisors®[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Written by Bob Barber

Genesis 25:30-34
He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom. ) Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?” But Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left. So Esau despised his birthright.

Matthew 7:15-20
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

Wolves know the power of words and emotions to manipulate others. They use fear to fuel insecurity, then pounce.

Besides high commissions, many companies offer Financial Wolves significant incentives to sell their products. Examples include week-long vacations at four-star resorts, substantial year-end bonuses, and expensive gifts like golf clubs.

Don’t get sucked in by these manipulative salespeople and their unscrupulous tactics. The next time you receive one of those free steak dinner seminar invitations, throw it in the trash where it belongs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.

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Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on August 26th, 2025

The Bullet Points for September are:

    1. Ready for Year-End Tax Planning: Why mention this in September? November and December focus on holidays, so by September, we know it’s better to start strategies earlier. We’re here to help with strategies that must be done before year-end, and Clayton or Mariah will contact you for RMDs soon.
    2. Costco Stops Selling Abortion Pill: Costco announced they are no longer selling the abortion pill mifepristone after influence from religious groups, including Inspire ETFs, which most clients have in their portfolios. This massive victory in protecting unborn children shows your impact as a Biblically Responsible Investor!
    3. The Fed’s Annual Meeting: The Federal Reserve’s Annual Economic Policy Symposium was held in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, August 21-23. Main topics were inflation, interest rates, with tariffs and immigration policies added. Chairman Powell indicated conditions ‘may warrant’ rate cuts as the Fed proceeds ‘carefully’. By publication, we may already have a cut.
    4. The 10-Year Treasury Rate: This misunderstood, significant rate determines mortgage rates, home prices, and stock market direction. It’s a benchmark for corporate bonds and loans. Today, this rate is precisely where it was two years ago. We watch it closely for portfolio allocations. Short-term rates don’t affect the 10-year, so the Fed can lower rates, but mortgage rates may stay the same unless the 10-year changes.
    5. Home Prices: Higher mortgage rates have won the battle over housing inflation. Home prices have fallen steeply in California, Texas, Florida, and the Southeast. Existing homes are staying on the market much longer than average, with sellers believing their homes are worth more than what buyers are willing to pay at today’s higher mortgage rates.
    6. Procrastination: It has been the biggest reason for financial failure for decades. Psychologists say people procrastinate due to emotional regulation, task aversion, and avoiding negative feelings like anxiety or fear of failure. It’s our job to help you avoid procrastinating on critical financial decisions.
    7. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
      • Ep 231 – 9/9/25 – Financial Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing
      • 1 Peter 5:10 – “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.”

Please join us in prayer for our brothers, sisters, and communities that were impacted by the recent floods in central Texas. May the Lord be glorified and may He bring peace that transcends all understanding.

 

Visit our channel: www.cfa.lc/yt

 

If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.

Bob Barber
Senior Wealth Advisor & President

Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®
Senior Wealth Advisor

Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor

Christian Financial Advisors®

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