Worried that today’s AI-driven tech rally may be forming a bubble? Emerging markets are quietly delivering some of the strongest returns of 2025—and offering portfolio diversification when investors need it most. With the MSCI Emerging Markets Index up more than 25% year-to-date, countries like India, South Korea, and Mexico are benefiting from faster growth, attractive valuations, a rising middle class, and a weaker U.S. dollar. We break down why emerging markets may be a smart complement to AI-heavy portfolios, what risks to watch, and whether this leadership shift can last into 2026.

As families set tables and prep turkeys for the Thanksgiving holiday, we are reminded that investors have plenty to be thankful for, including market strength despite tariffs, robust corporate earnings and an accommodative Federal Reserve.

“When you see one cockroach, there’s probably more,” said JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon in an Oct. 14 comment referring to cracks he’s seeing in the banking sector. The, now, infamous cockroach quote sparked important debate about the $1.6 trillion private credit market, which has grown 300% over the past decade while delivering strong risk-adjusted returns. Understanding both the opportunities and risks of this evolving asset class is essential for investors looking to tap into one of the market’s most compelling areas of growth.

After a year of stunning gains for low-quality, small-cap stocks, investors may be wondering if fundamentals still matter. History says yes. This week’s Markets in a Minute explores what’s fueling the rally, why it resembles the meme-stock craze, and why quality—not hype—remains the key to long-term investing success.

As the year winds down, smart investors revisit portfolios through a tax-efficient lens. From rebalancing concentrated stock positions to avoiding mutual fund “phantom gains” and setting a capital-gains budget, year-end tax planning can help reduce surprises and align investments with long-term goals.

Markets regained their footing in the third quarter, with stocks, bonds, commodities, and real estate all posting gains and nearly every S&P 500 sector ending the period higher. A stable U.S. dollar, new tax legislation, and easing tariff concerns helped fuel the rally, especially in tech and emerging markets. At the same time, labor market softening and a Fed rate cut supported bonds, while investors shifted focus to upcoming earnings guidance on AI spending and tariffs. With more rate cuts expected, the job market and CEO outlooks will be key drivers heading into 2026.

Ashwood Financial Partners ran the Good Medicine 5K to support the Free Clinic of Powhatan, combining team building with giving back to the community.

The U.S. housing market faces persistent affordability challenges despite recent shifts in supply and mortgage rates. In this Markets in a Minute, we examine why homeownership has become harder for first-time buyers, how the lock-in effect is reshaping supply, and what rising construction costs mean for the future of single-family housing. Explore the key drivers, risks, and potential policy solutions shaping the path ahead

This quarter’s earnings season is proving to be one of the strongest in recent years—and the common thread tying it together is artificial intelligence. In the latest Money with Murphy, Kara explores how AI’s influence extends far beyond the tech sector, creating ripple effects across industries like industrials and manufacturing. With rising guidance and shifting corporate investments, we may be seeing the early signs of a broader economic transformation.

Second Quarter Recap: Volatility, Resilience, and the Case for Diversification

Markets delivered a dramatic second quarter—starting with tariff turmoil and ending in record territory. The S&P 500 posted a 6% gain year-to-date, while international equities and bonds outperformed in surprising fashion. Behind the headlines, solid economic data, easing inflation, and rebounding bond markets helped lift investor sentiment. But persistent risks—from policy uncertainty to geopolitical tensions—are keeping markets on edge. In this quarter’s recap, we explore the key drivers behind the market’s V-shaped recovery and why diversification remains as important as ever for long-term investors.

Chris Milligan, CFA brings nearly 15 years of experience and a passion for markets to Ashwood’s investment team. A Braves fan, gardener, and firm believer in leading with attitude, effort, and integrity, Chris continues to make a lasting impact on our clients and our firm.

We’re proud to share that Kelsey Daugherty, Senior Advisor at Ashwood Financial Partners, has been named one of AdvisorHub’s Top 200 Advisors to Watch Under $1B for 2025. A well-earned recognition for her leadership, impact, and dedication to client success.

This quarter’s earnings season is proving to be one of the strongest in recent years—and the common thread tying it together is artificial intelligence. In the latest Money with Murphy, Kara explores how AI’s influence extends far beyond the tech sector, creating ripple effects across industries like industrials and manufacturing. With rising guidance and shifting corporate investments, we may be seeing the early signs of a broader economic transformation.