In our first Ask a Pro session, we welcomed Ryan Gardner, CFA® from Clark Capital Management Group to unpack the trends shaping the markets in early 2025, and what could lie ahead. From interest rate expectations to the effects of tariffs and investor sentiment, the conversation provided a grounded, insightful view of the current investment landscape.

Here Are 5 Key Takeaways From The Session

1. Stocks Stumble, Bonds Bounce
   Q1 proved difficult for equities, with the S&P 500 down 4.27% and the Russell 2000 falling nearly 10%. In contrast, bonds performed well, with U.S. Treasuries and the Aggregate Bond Index posting solid gains. The recent market pullback has made valuations more attractive, especially outside of mega-cap tech.
   
   
2. No Recession Yet, But Tariffs Loom
   The base case remains one of economic resilience, with no immediate recession on the horizon. However, the continued uncertainty surrounding tariffs could change that outlook. Inflation is moderating, the labor market remains healthy, and earnings continue to hit new highs.
   
   
3. Earnings Growth Still Driving Optimism
   Despite recent volatility, Clark Capital maintains a bullish long-term view with a 2025 S&P 500 target of 6700. This optimism is fueled by earnings growth, which remains a key driver of stock performance, even amid headline risk
   
   
4. Guages Reflect Mixed Signals
   Clark's proprietary economic “gauges” shifted slightly:
   

   - Economic growth: dialed back slightly
   - Monetary policy: held steady, with no rate cuts from the Fed yet
   - Valuations: kept neutral due to more attractive pricing post-pullback
   - Investor sentiment: moved more positive, but fear is high, and history shows that’s often when bottoms form

5. What It Means For Investors
   Periods of volatility are normal. Ryan highlighted historical data showing that the market experiences a 10%+ correction nearly every year. These moments often create opportunities for long-term investors.

Watch The Full Replay

If you missed the session or want to revisit the conversation, you can watch the full recording by clicking here and entering this passcode: k5$kXLft.

Questions?

If you have questions about how market developments may affect your plan, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you stay healthy, wealthy, and wise no matter the market environment.

Johnathon Opet, CFP® is a financial advisor located at EmVision Capital Advisors, 251 W. Garfield Rd. ​Suite 155 Aurora, OH 44202. He offers securities and advisory services as an Investment Adviser Representative of Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. He can be reached at (330) 954-3770 or at info@emvisioncapital.com.

Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Fixed insurance products and services are separate from and not offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®.