September was another positive month for markets, as the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq set new record highs. The international story was similar, with developed and emerging markets gaining for the month. Short-term interest rates also fell in September, as the Fed resumed cutting rates at its mid-month meeting. Markets anticipate one or two additional rate cuts by year-end.
News
What the Fed Decision Means for Markets
This week’s Fed meeting resulted in a much-anticipated interest rate reduction of 25 bps, to a range of 4 percent to 4.25 percent. This move followed a nine-month pause in its rate-cutting cycle, which began a year ago. Historically, equity markets have responded favorably to rate cuts after a pause of six months or more. But it’s been a while since we last saw this pattern. The Fed has not resumed a reduction cycle after a lag of that duration since July 2003. Markets have changed a lot since then.
The Market Observatory: Fed to the Rescue? [Audio]
Market Thoughts for September 2025 [Video]
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.






Client Relationship Specialist




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.
Client Relationship Specialist II
Wealth Advisor
Vice President of Operations and Integrator
Wealth Advisor
Senior Client Relationship Specialist
Senior Wealth Advisor
Wealth Advisor | Director of Business Development
Senior Wealth Advisor / Registered Principal
Senior Wealth Advisor / Registered Principal