For the past several years, the “Magnificent 7” stocks seemed unstoppable. Apple, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and Tesla drove much of the U.S. stock market’s gains.¹ Many investors wondered if owning anything else even mattered
The stock market is entering a very different phase than what investors experienced over the past decade. For years, low interest rates and low inflation made it easier for stocks to rise. Money was cheap, borrowing was easy, and investors were willing to pay higher prices for companies. That environment helped drive strong returns. Today, things have changed. Interest rates are higher, inflation is still not fully under control, and global tensions are rising. Together, these forces are creating a more uncertain path forward for the market.
Market leadership is undergoing a clear transition, and the focus is no longer limited to the “Magnificent Seven.” With 2026 revealing broader sector participation, strengthening mid-cap performance, and renewed traction in small caps, investors may need to reevaluate how they think about diversification and risk.
2026 is already testing investors with tech leadership, geopolitical tensions, and macro forces shaping the markets. The “Magnificent Seven” still lead – but slowing growth signals a shift in market dynamics you won’t want to ignore.
Q2 shook the markets, now’s the time to check your strategy. Read our Q2 Market Update for insights and smart next steps.
By Travis Dufner Retirement is a long-awaited milestone, but it’s often accompanied by a unique set of financial challenges. Perhaps none of these challenges is more difficult than effectively navigating the ever-shifting tides of market volatility. Yet even in the face of erratic market conditions, individuals can work toward a comfortable retirement by understanding the […]
When markets take a spill, especially when it comes to your retirement investments, it’s harder to find ways to meet your financial goals. If you were relying on IRA or 401(k) withdrawals to cover your expenses, doing so when markets are down would decrease the lifespan of your savings. And if you’re nearing retirement, market […]
For decades, the name of the personal finances game has been an asset or equity growth. High-growth tech stocks grew to dominate the market, some of which have grown to be among the largest companies in the world. And if you owned stock in those companies while they made their meteoric rise, your overall wealth […]
You may think that as a high net worth individual, or even a millionaire next door, you may have an easy road ahead in maintaining your wealth. But a greater amount of wealth to protect introduces unique challenges that are specific to the size of what they have to protect. Although many investing and wealth-preservation […]
When the winter season comes around, you’ll likely have to adjust your routines and prepare for the cold. If you’re in colder states, you may be looking to purchase a new winter coat or snow boots, or skiing equipment for your winter holidays. Or you may be restocking your snow salt for what are soon-to-be […]
