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 April 25th, 2025
The Bullet Points for May are:
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- Buying & Selling: An old quote by Charlie Munger (Warren Buffet’s partner before passing) was, “Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.” Our interpretation: Consider lightening up some when everyone wants in and buying a little more when everyone wants out, while also continuing to focus on the long-term. Run the opposite way of the crowd.
- Historical Week: History shows that large stock market declines and increases often occur closely together, and April was no different: April 3rd and 4th were two of the largest stock market point declines in history, followed by the largest ever point increase in the Dow Jones less than a week later on April 9th. Those who sell out often miss out. It’s not about timing the market; it’s about time in the market.
- Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs: In the last few months, we’ve heard nothing but President Trump and his tariffs in the news. This has caused massive stock market speculation about what may or may not happen in the economy in the short term. Our position is that over time, it will all work itself out, and in 1-2 years, the tariffs will be old news, and the media will be on to something else to be negative about.
- Inflation & Oil Lower: Inflation is getting closer to the Fed’s 2% target. The Consumer Price Index for March was negative (-0.1%), and the year-over-year measure came in below expectations at 2.4%. This was reported on the same day (April 10) when oil prices dipped below $60 a barrel for the first time in four years.
- Major Purchase? Call Us First!: We are here to assist you with various decisions related to your finances, including significant purchases. Beware of commission-based salesmen! Before deciding to purchase that new car, make a home improvement, or commit to any large purchase, please allow us to provide wise counsel to assist you in being the best steward of the Lord’s provision.
- Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
- Ep 225 – 5/6/25 – Examples of an Orderly Financial Household
- Ep 226 – 5/20/25 – Why Rental Home Income is Not Worth the Hassle
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV – “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
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
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 tells us that there will always be good times, tough times, and good times again. Stock markets are a lot like life and the weather. It’s beautiful one day, followed by thunderstorms the next, followed by a beautiful day again. The wise know panicking causes more harm than the actual cause.
Until next time, have a wonderful May.
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®