August 2025 Newsletter

Dear Clients and Friends,

As we move further into the summer of 2025, we reflect on a month that presented both familiar market dynamics and significant regional challenges. Our commitment remains steadfast in navigating these complexities and identifying opportunities to safeguard and grow your investments.

Market Overview

Between June and July to-date, investment markets have shown a strong rebound and continued positive momentum, particularly in equities. In June, major U.S. equity indices experienced gains, with performance largely driven by robust corporate earnings, especially from the technology and AI sectors, easing trade tensions between the U.S. and China, and a de-escalation of geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East. Treasury yields declined, leading to positive returns in the bond market. The Federal Reserve maintained its interest rates, holding them steady for the fourth consecutive meeting.

As we moved into July, the equity markets saw some slight pullbacks from their recent all-time highs. Bond yields saw some fluctuation as still-benign inflation data was released; meanwhile, commodities, particularly oil, experienced price movements influenced by global supply dynamics and, notably, recent events within the United States.

The overall sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, with analysts like Goldman Sachs projecting low recession probabilities, stable earnings, and further upside for the S&P 500, partly due to expectations of earlier-than-anticipated rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Investors continue to monitor inflation trends, central bank policies, and any evolving geopolitical situations closely.

The political winds have picked up, however, throwing some caution into the wind. Renewed tariff threats from Washington have once again stoked uncertainty, prompting investors to reassess risk. The deadline for trade “deals” has now been extended to August 1st, but it is reasonable to assume that will be extended again given the inherent complexity and duration of trade pact negotiations. The headline roulette from the Trump administration has resumed, and rhetoric has become an instrument of policy. With as much as the markets overreacted to the initial April announcements, it is hard to know whether the markets will underreact to the current news flow.

Economic Commentary

The broader economic landscape continues to show signs of moderation. Inflation has yet to display the full effects of the tariffs. The Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates remains a key focus, with market participants closely watching for any signals regarding future monetary policy adjustments. Employment figures continue to be strong, indicating a healthy labor market, though wage growth remains a topic of ongoing debate. Economic growth is likely to expand before slowing later this year.

Comment: The Texas Floods

The devastating floods that swept across parts of Texas this past month have had a profound human and economic impact. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with all those affected by this once in a thousand years natural disaster. Beyond the human tragedy, loss, and immediate humanitarian crisis, these events carry significant implications for the impacted communities and the regional economy.

The most immediate effects are seen in widespread property damage, displacement of residents, and disruption to local businesses. Infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and utilities, has sustained considerable damage, and the floods could lead to a temporary slowdown in regional economic activity. However, the charitable and collaborative spirit of central Texas remains very strong, and we are blessed that communities far and wide are working closely together to get through this.

Portfolio Review and Outlook

Our investment strategy remains focused on diversification and resilience. We continue to favor companies with strong balance sheets, diversified revenue streams, and a proven ability to adapt to changing economic and environmental conditions. Our outlook for the remainder of the year remains cautiously optimistic, with a keen eye on inflation trends, central bank policies, geopolitical developments, and as mentioned, the political theater coming out of Washington. We continue to believe that a well-diversified portfolio, strategically allocated across various asset classes, remains the most prudent approach to achieving your long-term financial goals.

Please feel free to schedule a review of your portfolio or discuss any questions you may have. Thank you for your continued trust and confidence.

Sincerely,

Eric Boyce, CFA

President & CEO

Forward-looking statements, estimates, and certain information contained herein are based upon proprietary and non-proprietary research and other sources. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but are not assured as to accuracy. Past performance is not indicative of future results. There is neither representation nor warranty as to the current accuracy of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information.

Risks: All investments, including stocks, bonds, commodities, alternative investments and real assets, should be considered speculative in nature and could involve risk of loss. All investors are advised to fully understand all risks associated with any kind of investment they choose to make. Hypothetical or simulated performance is not indicative of future results.

Investment advisory services offered through Boyce & Associates Wealth Consulting, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Boyce & Associates Wealth Consulting, Inc. has Representatives Licensed to sell Life Insurance in TX and other states.