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 December 19th, 2024
The Bullet Points for January are:
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- Recession Avoided?: As we move into 2025, the US continues to avoid a recession that has dominated headlines for over three years. While still possible, a recession in the near term appears unlikely with inflation normalizing, GDP consistent, and a strong labor market.
- Gas Prices: Weekly gas prices in the US hit a three-year low in mid-December 2024, with an average gallon costing $3.13 nationwide. The impact of the Trump administration’s economic and oil drilling policies on gas prices will likely take shape in the first half of 2025.
- Referrals: By now, you should have received a few brochures in the mail from us to share with people you know that we can help. We would love to be introduced to your family, friends, loved ones, and any other brother or sister in Christ who wants to honor God with their finances. Thank you for your boldness and for encouraging others to allow us to serve them, all to advance His Kingdom and glorify His Name!
- 2025 Financial Goals: Most people never hit their financial goals because they never write them down and look at them daily. Procrastination, by far, is the number one reason for economic failure. DON’T PROCRASTINATE, and write down just 1-2 financial goals on paper before you fall asleep tonight. Just come up with 1-2 goals today and add more tomorrow. Aim for nothing, and that is precisely what you will hit. People don’t plan to fail; they fail to plan. Listen to our recent podcast on successful goal setting, or watch it on YouTube.
- Budgeting: January is always a great time to establish your monthly budget for the year. Spend time to account for any income changes, and make sure any holiday spending habits are brought back in check. As Christians, we want to prioritize tithes and offerings, and this is a great time to pray (and consider a fast) to seek what the Lord would like you to do regarding giving to His Kingdom this year. Podcast episode 204 ‘Budgeting Without Counting,’ is a great guide, and our team is here to help when needed.
- Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
- Ep 217 – 1/14/25 – Ten Steps to Making Wise Financial Decisions
- Ep 218 – 1/28/25 – Why Location No Longer Matters
- Isaiah 43:19 – See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.
Remember, we moved to releasing episodes every other week to give people more time between episodes to listen or watch. To tune in, search “Christian Financial Perspectives” on almost any podcast platform or YouTube.
Visit our channel: www.cfa.lc/yt
We are so thankful to serve you on your stewardship journey for God’s glory. May God bless you as you seek Him in 2025!
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
Senior Wealth Advisor & President
Matthew Barrovecchio, CFP®
Senior Wealth Advisor
Don VandeVanter, CPA
Wealth Advisor
Christian Financial Advisors®