Financial Bullet Points – Christian Financial Advisors®

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[/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

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[/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.

Ep 238 – Introduction to “The Biblical Worldview of Money” – 01/13/2026
Ep 239 – The Biblical Worldview of Tithing and Giving – 01/27/2026
Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

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

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[/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

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[/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

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[/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

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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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[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1753565426904{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on July 26th, 2025

The Bullet Points for August are:

1. Schwab Notice for Bank Accounts: Schwab has recently sent out an annual reminder detailing all bank instructions linked to Schwab with Investment Advisor Money Movement authority. If you wish to remove or add banking instructions, please call our office. This verification process helps protect your assets as part of our commitment to good stewardship. If you haven’t received this notice or have questions, our team is ready to assist you.
2. Tariffs Taking Shape: Following the recent U.S. trade deals with both the U.K. and Vietnam, the month of July has seen many other trade agreements take shape, including Japan and South Korea. China, India, and the European Union remain top priorities for the administration. We’re monitoring these developments closely, however our focus remains on long-term investment strategies rather than reacting to short-term market fluctuations.
3. Big Beautiful Bill Act: Signed on July 4, the well publicized law comes with several changes to tax credits and deductions. Taxpayers with children, over the age of 65, or who have income from tips or overtime stand to benefit the most. The long-term impacts on the federal budget will continue to be debated for years to come. We’re analyzing these changes to help our clients understand how they might affect their personal financial planning and stewardship goals.
4. Inflation: As anticipated by Jerome Powell, the Federal Reserve Chairman, the Consumer Price Index for June increased 0.3% month-over-month. This brings the annualized inflation measure to 2.7% as economists suspect that the recent tariffs will begin impacting prices in the second half of 2025. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us that “The plans of the diligent lead to profit,” which includes thoughtful planning for economic changes.
5. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
  - Ep 230 – 8/12/25 – Emotional Investing
  - Matthew 6:20-21 – “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

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^®[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1750780222161{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on June 24th, 2025

The Bullet Points for July are:

1. Giving to God’s Kingdom: As we enter into the second half of the year, it is a good time to review your annual goals, including your giving. Giving breaks the power of money, and the Lord loves a cheerful giver. Those who have an IRA may be able to optimize the tax efficiency of their giving through a Qualified Charitable Distribution. Seek the Lord’s Will on maximizing generosity and ask Him what He would have you do.
2. Summer Travel: Oil prices increased to the highest levels since February after the Israeli-Iran conflict began on June 13. This overlaps with the seasonality of increased demand for gas for summer travel, as well as the increased supply chain risk that comes with hurricane season in the Gulf of America. Budgeting travelers should prepare.
3. Favorable Economics…For Now: Many economic data releases in the first half of June were favorable relative to expectations, including Consumer Sentiment, Producer Price Index, Consumer Price Index, and most components of the monthly jobs report. Simultaneously, uncertainty around global trade continues, raising inflation expectations for the second half of 2025. Consumers should monitor and be prepared.
4. Housing Market: On average, 30-year fixed mortgage rates remain around 7%. As of May, the annual inflation rate for shelter (housing/rent) was 3.9%, and homes are staying on the market an average of 51 days, the highest May reading since 2020. Home builder sentiment for June was among the lowest monthly reading in over a decade. The housing market remains in a difficult place for both buyers and sellers, and either mortgage rates or home prices need to budget.
5. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
  - Ep 226 – 7/1/25 – The Flaws of Comparing Investment Returns
  - 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.“

Remember, we moved to releasing episodes every other week to give people more time between episodes to listen or watch. To tune in, search “Christian Financial Perspectives” on almost any podcast platform or YouTube.

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

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[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1748474496365{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on May 23rd, 2025

The Bullet Points for June are:

1. Stay the Course: Investors who abandoned their long-term investment strategy due to market volatility in April likely find themselves remorseful after the rebound that has occurred late-April and most of May. During times like these, it is okay to re-evaluate your risk tolerance at the margins, but reacting to short-term market events is often a losing strategy.
2. Inflation: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) came in at 0.2% for the month of April, marking the third straight month that month-over-month CPI came in below expectations. This also coincides with President Trump’s first three full months of his second term. Year-over-year CPI came in at 2.3%, the closest to the Federal Reserve’s 2% target since March 2021.
3. Trade Deals: The US has reached trade deals with the U.K. and China, bringing some clarity to the global economy that the markets have applauded. These agreements are likely to serve as the barometer for other trade partners of the US over the coming months.
4. Corporate Engagement: Your Biblically Responsible Investment portfolio is about more than just excluding companies that go against God’s Word. Companies like Inspire and Eventide are ‘playing offense’ as well, engaging with senior leadership of organizations across the land in an effort to change the culture of corporate America. They are shining Light in darkness in an effort to redeem territory for God’s Glory.
5. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
  - Ep 227 – 6/3/25 – Christian Stewardship and Investing
  - Ep 228 – 6/17/25 – History Lessons of the Markets
  - Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Visit our channel: www.cfa.lc/yt

Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 tells us that there will always be good times, tough times, and good times again. Stock markets are a lot like life and the weather. It’s beautiful one day, followed by thunderstorms the next, followed by a beautiful day again. The wise know panicking causes more harm than the actual cause.

As we navigate these dynamic market conditions, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to biblical stewardship, trusting that faithful management of the resources God has entrusted to us will bear fruit for His Kingdom regardless of short-term market fluctuations.

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

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[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1745598343535{margin-top: 30px !important;}”]Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on April 25th, 2025

The Bullet Points for May are:

1. Buying & Selling: An old quote by Charlie Munger (Warren Buffet’s partner before passing) was, “Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.” Our interpretation: Consider lightening up some when everyone wants in and buying a little more when everyone wants out, while also continuing to focus on the long-term. Run the opposite way of the crowd.
2. Historical Week: History shows that large stock market declines and increases often occur closely together, and April was no different: April 3rd and 4th were two of the largest stock market point declines in history, followed by the largest ever point increase in the Dow Jones less than a week later on April 9th. Those who sell out often miss out. It’s not about timing the market; it’s about time in the market.
3. Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs: In the last few months, we’ve heard nothing but President Trump and his tariffs in the news. This has caused massive stock market speculation about what may or may not happen in the economy in the short term. Our position is that over time, it will all work itself out, and in 1-2 years, the tariffs will be old news, and the media will be on to something else to be negative about.
4. Inflation & Oil Lower: Inflation is getting closer to the Fed’s 2% target. The Consumer Price Index for March was negative (-0.1%), and the year-over-year measure came in below expectations at 2.4%. This was reported on the same day (April 10) when oil prices dipped below $60 a barrel for the first time in four years.
5. Major Purchase? Call Us First!: We are here to assist you with various decisions related to your finances, including significant purchases. Beware of commission-based salesmen! Before deciding to purchase that new car, make a home improvement, or commit to any large purchase, please allow us to provide wise counsel to assist you in being the best steward of the Lord’s provision.
6. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
  - Ep 225 – 5/6/25 – Examples of an Orderly Financial Household
  - Ep 226 – 5/20/25 – Why Rental Home Income is Not Worth the Hassle
  - Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV – “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

Until next time, have a wonderful May.

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]