This monthly communication, “Financial Bullet Points,” will quickly and easily cover the main financial issues we see affecting the markets without being bogged down with a lot of details.
Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on November 25th, 2025
The Bullet Points for December are:
-
- Year-End Tax Planning and Deadlines:: Year-end tax planning deadlines are fast approaching. The target is to complete all year-end RMDs, QCDs, Roth conversions, and other monetary transactions by December 12, and all clerical items by December 22. Our office is closed beginning on Christmas Eve. It’s crucial to implement year-end tax strategies now, as many cannot be completed after January 1st. These include maximizing qualified plan contributions (401(k), TSP, 403(b), etc.), making charitable donations, paying property tax bills, and other eligible expenses. Remember, itemized deductions must surpass the standard deduction to count: $31,500 for married couples (plus $12,000 for eligible seniors), and $15,750 for single filers (plus $6,000 for eligible seniors) in 2025. Contact us to discuss year-end tax strategies specific to your situation.
- Home Foreclosures: Total home foreclosures rose 19% in October compared to October 2024. The rising cost of property taxes and home insurance, particularly in states like Texas and Florida, has strained homeowners navigating monthly budgets. Continued increases in this area could significantly impact the US economy..
- Tariffs in Supreme Court: The Supreme Court will begin hearing arguments on President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs on November 5. While this continues to be a focal point of the market, it is very likely that a ruling is not announced for several weeks or even months. Traditionally, the Supreme Court communicates decisions on the most complex cases right before their summer recess in April or May. In the meantime, inflation risks remain, as many companies pass along the tariff costs to consumers.
- AI Stocks Waver: Early November brought a general decline in AI technology companies, as investors questioned if they are overpriced. While concerns about an AI bubble have surfaced, AI has infiltrated daily routines worldwide and is here to stay. However, prominent AI companies are facing increased competition, bringing their valuations into question.
- Equity Allocation: In September, based on 20+ market indicators, we took profits and lowered equity positions by 25% in our moderate, growth, and aggressive growth portfolios. We maintain an appropriate equity allocation, but this strategy enables us to purchase equities at favorable prices when opportunities arise. Patience is prudent while waiting for these opportunities. .
- Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
- Ep 236 – Annual Year-End Tax Strategies – 12/09/2025
- Ep 237 – Unique Giving Strategies – 12/23/2025
- Isaiah 9:6 – “For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”
- Year-End Tax Planning and Deadlines:: Year-end tax planning deadlines are fast approaching. The target is to complete all year-end RMDs, QCDs, Roth conversions, and other monetary transactions by December 12, and all clerical items by December 22. Our office is closed beginning on Christmas Eve. It’s crucial to implement year-end tax strategies now, as many cannot be completed after January 1st. These include maximizing qualified plan contributions (401(k), TSP, 403(b), etc.), making charitable donations, paying property tax bills, and other eligible expenses. Remember, itemized deductions must surpass the standard deduction to count: $31,500 for married couples (plus $12,000 for eligible seniors), and $15,750 for single filers (plus $6,000 for eligible seniors) in 2025. Contact us to discuss year-end tax strategies specific to your situation.
We hope all of you have a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
If you would like further explanation of any of the bullet points mentioned, please call or text (830) 609-6986 during business hours or email us by clicking here.
Bob Barber, CWS®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor & President
Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®, CKA®
Senior Wealth Advisor
Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor
Christian Financial Advisors®