![The Market Observatory: Fed to the Rescue? [Audio]](https://blog.commonwealth.com/hubfs/Market-Observatory_Ep-011_Thumbnail.png)
With the latest jobs data weaker than expected, many—including the equity markets—are counting on a rate cut at the Fed’s next meeting. In this month’s episode of the Market Observatory, Sam and I discuss what’s ahead, including:
News
Market Thoughts for September 2025 [Video]
![Market Thoughts for September 2025 [Video]](https://blog.commonwealth.com/hubfs/Market-Thoughts-September-2025_Thumbnail.png)
Despite volatility early on, the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq were up low- to mid-single digits for August. These results brought markets to record highs and indicated continued investor demand for U.S. stocks. International stocks also ended the month in positive territory, as risk assets rallied. Even bonds were up, as falling interest rates supported bond prices.
Investors Return From Summer Break: What’s Ahead for Fall?
After a volatile first four months of 2025, it was a good summer for investors to go on vacation, as markets, for the most part, went up weekly. In fact, the major equity indices closed August near their all-time highs.
The Market Observatory: Cracks in the Jobs Narrative [Audio]
![The Market Observatory: Cracks in the Jobs Narrative [Audio]](https://blog.commonwealth.com/hubfs/TMO_Aug%202025.jpg)
Tariffs, Jobs, and the Fed: What Now?
As July gave way to August, an eventful news week moved markets. Corporate earnings continued to surprise to the upside. They are now showing roughly 10 percent year-over-year growth versus expectations of 4.9 percent at the start of the quarter. The first look at Q2 GDP growth came in at 3 percent, which also exceeded the consensus estimates of 2.5 percent. As an offset to this upbeat news, tariffs continue to be seen in the daily headlines. Further, July’s jobs report came in below consensus, with large downward revisions to previous months.
Market Thoughts for August 2025 [Video]
![Market Thoughts for August 2025 [Video]](https://blog.commonwealth.com/hubfs/Market-Thoughts-August-2025_V02_20250801.00_00_04_08.Still038.jpg)
The market rally continued in July, as strong corporate earnings growth and optimism on trade lifted stocks. The S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq were all up low single digits for the month. The story was mixed internationally, with developed international stocks down while emerging markets rallied for the third straight month. Turning to the economy, the news was broadly positive. The economy grew at an annualized rate of 3 percent in the second quarter, beating expectations and signaling a healthy economic backdrop.
Olivia has joined Riverstone Wealth Partners providing knowledge gained from her 15 plus years in management. Olivia has provided services within the financial industry, mortgage industry, and in the non-profit sector. Olivia thrives on providing stellar customer service, accomplishing all goals set before her, and doing the right thing. Olivia’s degree in Business Management allowed her to take on roles that ultimately led her to Riverstone Wealth Partners. Olivia is currently pursuing another degree with an emphasizes in Human Resources, which she has learned over time… is her passion!
Director of Operations
Ashley has been working in the customer service field since she started her first job at age 16. For the past ten years she worked in an office setting handling accounts payable and receivable as well as some receptionist work. She is very excited to learn more about the investment field.
Alec joined Riverstone after starting out his post college career on the operations side of an international logistics company working as an account executive. Graduating with a BA in Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, he quickly developed a strong interest in the financial world. A lifetime resident of the Chicagoland area, Alec is an avid fan of his hometown sports teams. He is also an enthusiast of outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and hiking whenever possible.
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