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The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Card Tables to Financial Freedom Think back to when you first started your business. For us at Freedom Financial Partners, it was 12 years ago last month, beginning with a couple of computers, a few card tables, and endless optimism. We understand firsthand that as a [...]

Investors rotate toward certainty as President Trump seeks to reshape the economy Key Observations S. Equity Selloff – The S&P 500 fell -5.6% in March and -4.3% for the quarter, its worst since 2022, as stretched valuations and concentrated leadership fueled volatility. Mag Drag – Despite 61% of securities posting [...]

As advisors who regularly review retirement plans with business owners, we’ve seen countless plans that fall short of their potential. Common issues include business owners missing valuable tax advantages, plans failing to meet ERISA compliance guidelines, serious fiduciary oversights, poor participant communication leading to reduced contribution rates, and advisors lacking [...]

High valuations come with high expectations. U.S. equity markets step back on growth concerns. Key Observations Growth Scare Hits Risk Assets – Weaker economic data, a patient Fed and shifting policy dynamics fueled slowdown fears triggering a broad selloff of U.S. equities, with defensive sectors outperforming. Growth Puts Spotlight on [...]

As financial advisors working with business owners, we’re often asked crucial questions about protecting, growing, and eventually transitioning from their businesses. Here are the six most common questions we encounter, along with insights gained from helping numerous owners navigate these important decisions. How Do I Protect Everything I’ve Built? This [...]

Key Observations Full valuations, concentrated U.S. large-cap indexes and the risk of reigniting inflation are shaping the key themes we believe will drive markets and portfolio positioning in 2025. Recent market successes have pushed our 2025 10-year forecasts lower across most major asset classes. Long-term return premium for equities over [...]

As we enter 2025, running a business has never been more complex. There are many unknowns that are hard to plan for, including economic uncertainty and the impact of artificial intelligence. In this environment of uncertainty, we see the most successful business owners laser-focused on controlling what they can control.  [...]

As the Director of Operations and Chief Compliance Office at Freedom Financial, you might think I have all my financial ducks in a row. After all, I’ve spent over 20 years in the financial services industry, and I oversee day-to-day operations and compliance at our firm. But the truth is, financial [...]

Key Observations The end of election season fueled a rally in the U.S. equity markets in anticipation of pro-business policies such as potential deregulation and tax cuts. The U.S. dollar appreciated, reflecting expectations of inflationary fiscal policies and potential shifts in Federal Reserve actions. The Federal Reserve and Bank of [...]

According to the Exit Planning Institute, over 80% of a typical business owner’s net worth is tied to the value of their business. This statistic underscores the critical importance of understanding the “Value Gap”—the difference between the current value of a business and the value it needs to achieve to [...]

October leaves markets in the red amid an otherwise upbeat year   Key Observations Despite a Federal Reserve rate cut in September, rising inflation concerns and a cooling labor market overshadowed optimism, leading to a cautious market environment in October. While October brought challenges, year-to-date returns remain strong, highlighting underlying [...]

If you’re a business owner, the pursuit of freedom likely inspired you to forge your own path. Instead of opting for a traditional corporate job with a steady salary and benefits, you chose to build something uniquely yours. However, owning a business doesn’t always equate to the freedom you envisioned. [...]

Inflation improvement and weaker economic data shift Fed sentiment Key Observations Markets were generally positive in August, despite a tough start to the month as investors wrestled with weakening economic data, geopolitical unrest and global growth. Shifting language at the Federal Reserve’s Jackson Hole summit indicated a renewed focus on [...]

Attracting and retaining talented executives is one of the most critical challenges for any business, regardless of its size. For companies to thrive in today’s competitive market, they need more than just a good salary to offer their top-level leadership. Executive benefit plans provide a powerful solution by offering high-value, [...]

Selling your business is one of the most significant milestones in your professional life. It marks the culmination of years—often decades—of dedication and hard work. However, according to the Exit Planning Institute, more than 70% of business owners regret their decision within a year. Therefore, before celebrating this major achievement, [...]

Falling rates and softer inflation contribute to a reversal in market leadership   Key Observations Softer inflation data released in July pushed interest rates lower and market expectations for a September Fed rate cut are almost fully priced in. More rate-sensitive assets fared well. Market leadership shifted on the back [...]

googleImagine this: As a business owner, you’ve worked for years to build a business, leading your company to new heights. You hold regular meetings, setting ambitious goals while meticulously charting a course for success.   Yet, in the midst of rapid growth, persistent questions remain: Will I have enough financial [...]

A back-to-the-basics look at allocating capital efficiently Key Observations A fixation on the direction of interest rates continues to drive prices in the short term, including in May. Rates moved lower, pushing rate-sensitive asset classes ahead of their peers. However, we take this opportunity to step back from the short-term [...]

In January of 2024, a disturbing incident shook the financial world as a Hong Kong bank employee fell victim to deepfake technology, resulting in a fraudulent payout of $25 million.[1] This sophisticated deception, where AI-generated replicas of colleagues participated in a video conference, underscores the growing threat posed by AI-driven [...]

The impact of military conflict on markets   Key Observations Markets repriced in April on “higher-for-longer” rates pushing longer duration fixed income and duration sensitive equities lower. Small-cap growth stocks were hit as the two largest securities in the index declining -15% and -37% due to moderating AI spending concerns. [...]

A data driven view into partisan politics In 2024, citizens worldwide will head to the polls, shaping the course of their nations. National elections are slated to occur in countries representing 40% of the global population.[1] The decisions made by these elected officials can hold significant sway over our daily [...]

Key Observations Most risk assets advanced in February as optimism remains that the no-show recession of 2023 continues to fade further into the rear-view mirror. As a result, fixed income investors have also tempered the expectations around rate cuts and longer duration assets underperformed. For the first time in 34 [...]

Changing interest rate expectations impact markets at the start of the year. Key Observations Markets were mixed in January, with U.S. large cap equities leading the way while non-U.S. equities and fixed income produced lackluster returns. Market sentiment shifted and optimism on the potential for a soft-landing grew. Expectations for [...]

If you’re looking to attract an investor or an acquirer one day, expect them to dig into your sales and marketing process.  If you’re a company that sells to other businesses, an investor will want to know where you get your leads from and how much each costs you to [...]

Interest Rate Challenges into Opportunities Key Observations Our 10-year return forecasts show increased opportunity across fixed income and real assets with a modest step back for equities. This makes for one of the more attractive risk-adjusted returns for fixed income relative to equity we have seen in several years. We [...]

When it comes to the value of your business, optics matter. How your business is perceived in the marketplace can drastically affect how your company is valued. Let’s look at the story of Kiran Merchant. Merchant was the Chief of Aviation Planning for the Port Authority of New York and [...]

Markets rallied in November giving investors plenty for which to be thankful   Key Observations Longer dated interest rates experienced a significant decline as market sentiment leaned towards anticipating 2024 rate cuts. Overall, markets showed positivity, driven by heightened risk appetites fueled by the decrease in rates and a less [...]

The S&P 500 Enters Correction Key Observations The S&P 500 entered a “correction”, defined as a pullback of 10% or more; intra-year corrections are not uncommon for equity markets. Fixed income continues to struggle based on a myriad of factors including Fed narrative, an illusive recession and higher issuance by [...]

According to Charles Schwab, retirement planning is the number one source of financial stress for the majority of Americans.1 Given the potential for retirement to span 20 or more years, it is extremely important to avoid costly mistakes today which could have detrimental costs tomorrow. This article outlines eight common [...]

Markets took a step back in August as sentiment shifted surrounding Fed policy Key Observations Fitch downgraded the United States’ credit rating to AA+ from AAA at the start of the month. Market volatility continued through the month and most major asset classes experienced negative returns. Higher interest rates due [...]

It is no secret that we do not always act in our own rational best interests, we often let our emotions and biases get the best of us when it comes to everyday decisions. Who among us has not resolved at some point in our lives to improve diet or [...]

Favorable economic data fuels risk assets as markets post solid gains during July. Key Observations Markets posted favorable returns in July as investors found renewed optimism in economic data being reported, even in the face of year-over-year earnings declines. The Federal Reserve raised rates in July, now targeting 5.25-5.5% for [...]

In 2022, consumer financial fraud reached alarming levels. Reported losses totaled nearly $8.8 billion,[1] which represented an increase of more than 30% over the previous year. Unfortunately, this frightening increase in fraud has been a consistent trend over the last five years.  Source:  Federal Trade Commission.  As of February 2018 [...]

All eyes remain on Congress as the June “x-date” approaches. Key Observations Market volatility persisted in May as investors tried to digest potential Fed policy action in June and the possibility of a U.S. default which was averted with a last minute deal. Most market indexes posted negative returns, with [...]

Key Observations Muted returns of broad market indexes for the month of April hide the churn underneath as the lagged and variable impact from higher rates take hold. Leading Economic Indicators (LEI) show more ardent anticipation of economic contraction. History would suggest four months or more of declining indicators is [...]

“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin Yes, you’ve probably heard this quote before, and no, we don’t think that you don’t understand the importance of preparation. However, context is key. For example, consider someone who’s studying for an exam. As long as it’s not [...]

While markets retreat, the shift in rate expectations show signs the end of rate hikes is near. Key Observations Strong economic data pushed market expectations to 0.5% more rate hikes by year end. While perhaps overdone, this speaks to the end is near on rising rates. With 94% of S&P [...]

Filter out the noise and stay the course. Key Observations Broad asset classes rose higher off 2022 lows on cooling pricing pressures and the possibility of a Fed pause Equities abroad outperformed amid a declining U.S. dollar and higher than expected growth The U.S. debt ceiling has sparked conversation, however [...]

As we begin the new year, you have may seen rumblings of financial planning changes related to the new Secure Act 2.0 which was passed with the most recent spending bill. We have received enough questions where it made sense for us to start to disseminate some of our internal [...]

Signs of peaking inflation and the potential for central bank moderation in 2023 pushed equity markets higher in November. Key Observations Risk assets rallied on the back of softening inflation data and “Fed pause” mentality The Federal Reserve reiterated its commitment to combat inflation, but a pivoting tone hinted at [...]

Year-end is fast approaching, with the December holidays just around the corner. While the market malaise may be front-and-center on the minds of many, individuals should not overlook year-end planning opportunities which may provide meaningful benefits. We invite you to skim the topics below to see if any may be [...]

… To Know What You’re Looking For.   Key Observations Equity markets broadly enjoyed a reprieve from September lows, but fixed income and China continue to struggle in the face of a hawkish Fed and investor concerns as President Xi consolidates power. As investors seek answers as to when markets [...]

Does running a marathon have any correlation with being an investor? As a recent marathon finisher, I believe it does. On October 2nd, 2022, I crossed an item off my bucket list while crossing the finish line of the Twin Cities Marathon in St. Paul, Minnesota. The training and discipline [...]

A firm stance on fighting inflation from Jackson Hole pushed markets lower as investors wrestle with the impact on the global economy. Key Observations Markets turned negative for the month following the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium. The Federal Reserve reiterated its commitment to combat inflation “until the job is done.” [...]

Markets eye earnings reports for forward guidance in a challenging environment Key Observations July provided solid respite after a difficult first half of 2022, with investors buying the dip. Investors looked to corporate earnings and guidance to set expectations for the second half of 2022 and beyond, assessing the position [...]

For anyone in need of yet another example of the benefits of routine, consistent saving and investing, this is it. Retirement plan participants who did so accumulated sizable 401k plan account balances in the last decade, according to a new joint study from ICI and the Employee Benefit Research Institute [...]

With inflation hovering near 40-year highs, some investors are looking for alternative ways to weather the storm. For many, a Series I Savings Bond is just the ticket. I Bonds give investors a rate of return plus inflation protection and are backed by the U.S. government. I Bonds are pretty [...]

We recently shared a newsletter with clients titled “Recession vs. Inflation: The Main Event”. The content supported the causes of the S&P 500 approaching bear market territory being ‘severe inflation, and the extent to which the economy might be driven into recession by the Federal Reserve’s somewhat belated efforts to [...]

The primary function of financial journalism seems to be terrifying us out of ever achieving our financial goals by shrieking about the market’s volatility. We’ve been reminded of this almost hourly as the S&P 500 approached “official bear market territory,” defined as closing 20% below its January all-time high. Every [...]

We have been receiving questions regarding Series I Savings Bonds from clients so would like to share this communication to answer FAQs regarding the bonds. What are Series I Savings Bonds? Series I bonds are basically a way to profit from rising inflation. The “I” in Series I bonds stands [...]

According to the calendar, spring is here! Not unlike the weather changes that we’re experiencing, legislative and market changes appear to be following suit. To keep you up to date with the most relevant information, we have highlighted two areas of focus. The first is a brief overview of pending [...]

Key Observations Positive macroeconomic news in early February was overshadowed by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine during the last week of the month. Markets were broadly lower, with real assets being the exception. Economic sanctions on Russia continue to pressure commodity prices and inflation globally which, paired with escalating uncertainty, will [...]

As we share insights on the markets due to the Ukraine and Russia conflict, we do not want to minimize the humanitarian impact of what is happening.  Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this and we hope for a swift and peaceful resolution. At this point, it is impossible [...]

KEY OBSERVATIONS Many markets entered a technical correction (defined as a 10 percent pull back or more) in January as headline inflation reached levels not seen since the 1980s[1] and the Federal Reserve continued to shift its stance, becoming less accommodative. It is worth noting the level and pace of [...]

“The Two Most Powerful Warriors are Patience and Time”     -Leo Tolstoy   We hope everyone is enjoying a terrific start to the new year! First off, we wanted to thank you, our clients and trusted business partners, for your referrals and introductions that led us to the most successful [...]

Recently, there has been an abundance of news circulating, which may be having an impact on financial markets and you. To reduce the number of email we send, we compiled a comprehensive update and will monitor these situations moving forward. Should there be any large financial planning or market impacts, [...]

Year-end planning could prove more challenging for our FFP clients in 2021, given continued uncertainty over tax reform. The social safety net and climate bill known as the “Build Back Better Act” (BBBA) has been tied up in negotiations for months, given competing priorities on when to pass the infrastructure [...]

Equities overcome inflationary pressures and prospects of tighter monetary policy Key Observations Equity markets rebounded in October to new all-time highs. Treasury yields trended higher, leading to modest declines across most fixed income asset classes. US. and global central banks took initial steps toward tightening monetary policy (for historical perspective, [...]

IR-2021-216, November 4, 2021 WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service announced today that the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2022 has increased to $20,500, up from $19,500 for 2021 and 2020. The IRS today also issued technical guidance regarding all of the cost‑of‑living adjustments affecting dollar [...]

We have been receiving a lot of questions here at Freedom Financial regarding China and changes to the regulatory environment. Many of you have been reading articles about the Chinese company, Evergrande, as they navigate a potential debt restructuring. While the situation with Evergrande is still playing out, we wanted [...]

SUMMER RAIN FEEDS THE EQUITY MARKET Key Observations Equity markets largely shrugged off headline risks through the month and posted positive The S&P 500 Index has returned over 20 percent year-to-date The Federal Reserve will likely begin tapering its asset purchase program later this year or early in 2022 with [...]

‘Normalcy’ Moves Markets Higher, but Concerns Rise Key Observations Many broad market indexes posted positive returns for the month of July with some U.S. indexes hitting all-time highs. However, recent trends favoring the ‘vaccine trade’ areas of the market have reversed for the month with energy taking a step back, [...]

By Lisa P Staron of Murtha Cullina   One of the main purposes of estate planning is to determine who receives your property when you die, and when and how they can access that inheritance. For many families, the answer involves a written plan for the benefit of their children [...]

FAQs Relating to Fiducient Who is Fiducient? Fiducient is an independent consulting firm that provides investment consulting to a select group of firms within our industry. Their focus, similar to Freedom Financial Partners, is to provide conflict free, client first advice. They have no relationships with large financial institutions, custodians [...]

As Freedom Financial Partners (FFP) has rapidly grown over the past few years, we continue to look for resources that allow us to provide a higher level of service to our clients. The bar is extremely high for us as to who we will partner with. We value what we [...]

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Tambra Ray to Office & Marketing Manager. Since she started with FFP, Tambra has worked tirelessly behind the scenes in a variety of different capacities as the business has grown. Most recently, she has been instrumental in the launch of our newsletter, [...]

Economic recovery, updated vaccine and portfolio considerations Key Observations Financial market returns year-to-date coincide closely with the premise of an expanding global economic recovery. Economic momentum and a robust earnings backdrop have fostered uniformly positive global equity returns while this same strength has been the impetus for elevated interest rates, [...]

An analysis of the cryptocurrency’s merits and risks following its recent rally Key Observations Recent returns, greater accessibility and broader backing of Bitcoin have led to broader adoption by investors, custodians and developers. While recent returns, low correlations and significant network growth are promising, significant risks from other cryptocurrencies, regulators [...]

Key Observations Global capital markets generally posted modest gains during May with value stocks outpacing their growth counterparts and international markets topping U.S. stocks. Declining interest rates and persistent appetite for yield supported fixed income. Coming off a low base in 2020, U.S. inflation (CPI) jumped noticeably in April. Supply [...]

A big focus for Freedom Financial this year has been following potential estate tax law changes under the new Biden administration and anticipating how they could impact our clients. We will continue to focus on this topic with clients as we follow potential estate tax legislation and changes. Estate tax [...]

By Jon Holmgren and Sam Swift “Perhaps we could have timed our move a bit better from a weather perspective,” is what my wife said to me the other day looking back on our move from Atlanta, Georgia, to the Twin Cities in late December of last year. After the [...]

Wow! Where has the time gone?! Today, February 25, marks the 8th anniversary of Freedom Financial Partners and what a journey it has been. We have been humbled by the response over the past 8 years and wanted to send a quick note thanking you, our clients, for allowing us [...]