Blogs

Quarterly Market Review: Q2 2023 By: Paul Dickson, Director of Research and Giri Krishnan, Senior Portfolio Manager An Unsinkable Economy? A tight labor market and continued high consumer demand appear to have staved off a recession – possibly until 2024 (if even then). This resilience has meant continued inflationary pressures and points toward more Federal Reserve rate hikes this summer. So far, the U.S. economy has defied many economists’ more dire predictions. Hopes are growing for a “soft landing,” even after the most dramatic tightening of monetary policy since the early 1980s. The risks...

Tips and Strategies for Rapid Growth The following article appeared in the Kansas City Business Journal and is published here with permission. In today’s constantly evolving economic landscape, business leaders face a multitude of challenges. From adapting to a decentralized workforce to attracting top talent to positioning your brand, companies must be strategic in their approach to achieve sustainable growth. The Kansas City Business Journal recently gathered leaders of thriving local companies to provide insights and practical strategies to navigate economic uncertainties — all while...

Quarterly market review: Q1 2023 By: Paul Dickson, Director of Research and Mark Stevens, Chief Investment Officer Staying the Course Speculation that the Federal Reserve will reverse course in its battle against inflation or change its policy target to a higher one is likely misplaced. A recession – hopefully a mild one -- is the most likely outcome with “policy triage” applied for unintended victims. The Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary tightening program recently had its first birthday. On March 15, 2022, the Fed increased its Effective Federal Funds Rate (Fed Funds Rate) by 25 basis points...

Business email compromise scams—also known as BEC scams—can do untold damage to your company and reputation. Recognizing compromised emails is the difference between safe guarding your business or becoming a victim. Learn more about BEC scams and how you can protect your business and your bottom line. Business email compromise scams—also known as BEC scams—can do untold damage to your company and reputation. According to the FBI, victims of BEC scams lost $2.4 billion in 2021, exceeding losses from ransomware attacks nearly fifty-fold! BEC scams account for a third of cybercrime losses, and...

The economic forecast may be uncertain, but preparing for potentially inflated rates is the smartest course of action. Liquidity management is a lot of work, but the benefits can help your business thrive rather than survive. Learn more about how you can keep your business afloat in every season. A fluctuating economic environment, such as the one we’re currently experiencing, has historically pointed toward the imminent possibility of a recession. While forecasts aren’t 100% reliable, proactive leaders should prepare for future economic turmoil by reimagining their company’s liquidity...