Better Financial Health in 15 Minutes (or less!)

Banks are all the buzz right now, and Stacey is here to tell you what you need to know about how the banking system works and what you should be thinking about to keep your money safe.

Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Market turbulence has everyone on edge as tariffs and the new Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) dominate headlines. While March inflation numbers showed modest improvement at 2.8% versus the expected 2.9%, the shifting landscape of potential tariffs—ranging from 10% to 50%—creates planning challenges for both businesses and consumers.
Those needing a new vehicle might want to shop current inventory, as even with deferred auto tariffs, the deeply intertwined supply chains connecting Mexico, Canada, and the US mean price uncertainty looms. Modern manufacturing reality means that "Made in USA" products often contain globally sourced components, and even companies wanting to reshore operations face significant implementation timelines measured in years, not months.
Despite these uncertainties, knee-jerk portfolio changes rarely serve investors well. The surprising outperformance of international developed markets over US stocks this year—contrary to what tariff fears might suggest—highlights the enduring value of global diversification. A well-constructed portfolio with exposure to US stocks (small and large), international markets, and safer assets like money markets or fixed income provides resilience against policy surprises.
DOGE's efficiency mission sounds appealing, but concerns grow about broad implementation without careful consideration of unintended consequences, particularly on essential services for vulnerable populations. Civic engagement through contacting representatives can help shape more thoughtful approaches to government reform.
Throughout these divisive times, remember that most Americans (over 80%) occupy the middle ground politically. By approaching differences with kindness and genuine curiosity rather than judgment, we maintain the connections that help us navigate uncertainty together. The volatility we're experiencing isn't permanent.

Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.

Are you familiar with series I bonds? If not, Stacey is here this week to tell you what you need to know about these bonds and how to use them to help you reach your financial goals. Even if you have heard of I bonds, Stacey has some things to keep in mind to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck!

Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.

We are coming back around to the question that doesn't seem to go away: are we in a recession? Stacey reminds us this week what a a recession is and then walks us through where some key indicators are today. Then, she shares some suggestions on how to approach the new year while we are still in a period of uncertainty and take a new outlook into the new year.

Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.

We've talked before about internet security and passwords, but today we're talking about the people who do the bad things with your personal information and some of the most common ways they are getting people right now. Most importantly, Stacey is sharing helpful tips for how to protect yourself against the bad guys.

Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.