September 2025 Financial Bullet Points

Written by Bob Barber, Matthew Barrovecchio, and Don VandeVanter
Prepared on August 26th, 2025

The Bullet Points for September are:

1. 1. Ready for Year-End Tax Planning: Why mention this in September? November and December focus on holidays, so by September, we know it’s better to start strategies earlier. We’re here to help with strategies that must be done before year-end, and Clayton or Mariah will contact you for RMDs soon.
   2. Costco Stops Selling Abortion Pill: Costco announced they are no longer selling the abortion pill mifepristone after influence from religious groups, including Inspire ETFs, which most clients have in their portfolios. This massive victory in protecting unborn children shows your impact as a Biblically Responsible Investor!
   3. The Fed’s Annual Meeting: The Federal Reserve’s Annual Economic Policy Symposium was held in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, August 21-23. Main topics were inflation, interest rates, with tariffs and immigration policies added. Chairman Powell indicated conditions ‘may warrant’ rate cuts as the Fed proceeds ‘carefully’. By publication, we may already have a cut.
   4. The 10-Year Treasury Rate: This misunderstood, significant rate determines mortgage rates, home prices, and stock market direction. It’s a benchmark for corporate bonds and loans. Today, this rate is precisely where it was two years ago. We watch it closely for portfolio allocations. Short-term rates don’t affect the 10-year, so the Fed can lower rates, but mortgage rates may stay the same unless the 10-year changes.
   5. Home Prices: Higher mortgage rates have won the battle over housing inflation. Home prices have fallen steeply in California, Texas, Florida, and the Southeast. Existing homes are staying on the market much longer than average, with sellers believing their homes are worth more than what buyers are willing to pay at today’s higher mortgage rates.
   6. Procrastination: It has been the biggest reason for financial failure for decades. Psychologists say people procrastinate due to emotional regulation, task aversion, and avoiding negative feelings like anxiety or fear of failure. It’s our job to help you avoid procrastinating on critical financial decisions.
   7. Continuing Education and Scriptures. This month’s programs for Christian Financial Perspectives are listed below along with our Scriptures for the month:
      • Ep 231 – 9/9/25 – Financial Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing
      • 1 Peter 5:10 – “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.”

Please join us in prayer for our brothers, sisters, and communities that were impacted by the recent floods in central Texas. May the Lord be glorified and may He bring peace that transcends all understanding.

Visit our channel: www.cfa.lc/yt

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^®