Episodes
Sept. 29, 2026
Rates Rise, Stocks Hold
Treasury yields are back above 5%, yet stocks remain near record highs. This week, we look at what’s driving rates higher, why the economy continues to hold up, and what upcoming inflation and employment data could mean for markets.
Sept. 29, 2026
Rates, Energy and Inflation
The Fed raised interest rates for the first time since 2023, while rising energy costs, particularly diesel, could add to inflation pressures and influence where rates go next. This week’s Market Update explores the Fed’s path forward and what the changing rate environment could mean for investors. #MarketUpdate #FederalReserve #Inflation #InterestRates #Investing
Sept. 15, 2026
Treasury Demand Holds Firm
Strong demand for U.S. Treasury debt offered an encouraging signal last week, even as inflation pressures returned. This week, attention turns to the Federal Reserve as markets weigh a potential rate hike and questions surrounding the Fed’s credibility and independence. #MarketUpdate #FederalReserve #TreasuryYields #Inflation
Aug. 25, 2026
Markets Await Fed Clarity
Can the Treasury's latest actions help bring long-term interest rates under control? This episode explores the expanded bond buyback program, the forces continuing to push yields higher, and why investors are looking to the Federal Reserve for greater clarity on the path ahead.
Aug. 18, 2026
Why Long-Term Interest Rates Keep Rising
Long-term interest rates continue to rise, creating ripple effects across the economy and financial markets. Learn what's driving higher Treasury yields, how rising rates affect consumers and businesses, and why diversification remains an important strategy in today's market.
Aug. 11, 2026
Strong Earnings Support Markets
Despite persistent uncertainty in the headlines, markets continue to show resilience. This week, we look at strong corporate earnings, rising revenues and record profit margins—and why fundamentals can matter more than short-term market noise.
Aug. 4, 2026
Markets Search for the Fed's Roadmap
Why did stocks and bonds decline after the Federal Reserve meeting? In this episode, Adam Phillips explains why markets are searching for greater clarity on the Fed's strategy, how rising Treasury yields are affecting the economy and investments, and why diversification remains a key principle during periods of uncertainty.
July 28, 2026
Markets Focus on Fed and Earnings
One of the biggest weeks of the summer is underway as investors watch the Federal Reserve's latest meeting and a surge of earnings reports from major companies. In this episode, Adam Phillips discusses what resilient economic data, strong corporate earnings, and rising Treasury yields could mean for markets—and why diversification remains a key investment principle.
July 14, 2026
Strong Returns Put Market Fundamentals in Focus
The S&P 500 has doubled over the past four years, supported by resilient corporate earnings and a strong economy. Listen as we explore what this week's inflation data, retail sales, and the start of earnings season could mean for investors and the market outlook.
June 30, 2026
Market Leadership Broadens
Market leadership is changing. Strong gains in small-cap stocks, international equities, and emerging markets during the first half of 2026 highlight why diversification remains an important part of a long-term investment strategy. Listen as we discuss what's driving today's market and what investors should watch in the months ahead.
June 2, 2026
Is the SpaceX IPO a Great Opportunity or a Great Story?
SpaceX is expected to become the largest IPO in history, potentially debuting at a valuation approaching $2 trillion. But does that automatically make it a great investment? In this episode, we explore: The risks and opportunities surrounding high-profile IPOs Why valuation still matters What history tells us about newly public companies Why long-term investors should focus on fundamentals over hype As excitement builds around SpaceX, OpenAI, Anthropic, and the next wave of AI-driven compa...
May 19, 2026
Rising Inflation Pressures Push Bond Yields Higher
Inflation came in hotter than expected last week, sending Treasury yields higher and raising new questions about the direction of interest rates and the broader economy. In this episode of The Market Update, Adam Phillips discusses rising bond yields, shifting Federal Reserve expectations, Nvidia earnings, and what upcoming retailer reports could reveal about the health of the U.S. consumer.
May 12, 2026
Wall Street and Main Street Continue to Tell Different Stories
This week’s Market Update focuses on the growing disconnect between Wall Street and Main Street. Markets continue moving higher, driven largely by technology and artificial intelligence themes, while many consumers face increasing pressure from inflation and higher energy costs. The update also covers recent labor market data, real wage trends, and key events investors are watching this week. market update, stock market update, investing outlook#MarketUpdate #Investing #FinancialMarkets #StockMa...
April 28, 2026
Market Update: Earnings, the Fed, and What to Watch
It’s a pivotal week for markets. Nearly half of the S&P 500 is set to report earnings, including several major technology companies that have driven recent market momentum. At the same time, the Federal Reserve meets with no rate change expected, but increased attention on what comes next. Earnings trends, geopolitical tensions, and a potential leadership shift at the Fed are all in focus. In this update, we break down what investors should be watching. Show Notes • Earnings season accelerates...
April 21, 2026
Markets Rebound to New Highs as Earnings Remain Strong
Markets have rebounded to new highs following a sharp pullback earlier this month. This week’s Market Update highlights what’s driving the recovery, including rising earnings expectations, elevated interest rates, and the continued impact of geopolitical uncertainty.market update, stock market update, investing outlook, earnings growth#MarketUpdate #Investing #FinancialMarkets #StockMarket #FederalReserve
March 31, 2026
What Has Changed and What Hasn't Amid Ongoing Uncertainty
Markets continue to navigate uncertainty as the conflict in the Middle East evolves. This week’s Market Update highlights what has changed and what has not, including shifting expectations for interest rates, a resilient labor market, and strong corporate earnings supporting markets. market update, stock market update, investing outlook, federal reserve #MarketUpdate #Investing #FinancialMarkets #StockMarket
March 24, 2026
Markets Rise on Signs of De-escalation; Fed Remains Cautious
In this week’s Market Update, we discuss how markets are reacting to signs of de-escalation in the Middle East, including developments involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. We also cover the recent Federal Reserve meeting, shifting expectations for interest rate cuts, and what these changes mean for markets and portfolios.market update, stock market update, investing outlook, middle east conflict, #MarketUpdate #Investing #FinancialMarkets #StockMarket
March 17, 2026
Markets Hold Up Amid Middle East Uncertainty+
Markets have remained relatively resilient despite rising tensions in the Middle East. In this week’s Market Update, we discuss how markets are responding to developments involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, what oil prices and futures markets suggest about investor expectations, and how portfolios are positioned during this period of uncertainty. market update, stock market update, investing outlook, middle east conflict, #MarketUpdate #Investing #FinancialMarkets #StockMarket
Aug. 6, 2025
Job Data Shakes Fed Rate Expectations
Last week was a busy one for markets, with headlines dominated by earnings from several tech giants and major tariff announcements. But two events, in particular—the Federal Reserve’s policy meeting and the latest jobs report—offered critical insight into the current state of the economy.
July 23, 2025
Inflation Appears Tame, But Underlying Pressures Emerge
Mixed Inflation Signals and Fed Leadership in the Spotlight The June Consumer Price Index (CPI) report brought mixed news for markets. While overall inflation appeared moderate—marking the fifth consecutive month of softer-than-expected core readings—some specific consumer categories showed surprising strength. Core goods excluding autos, which are more susceptible to import costs and tariffs, posted their largest price increases in years. Notable month-over-month price jumps included: -Men’s sh...
July 23, 2025
Riding the Rally, But Watch for Trade Risks
Markets continue to hover near all-time highs, with the S&P 500 up roughly 26% since its April 8 low. That date marked the day before President Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs—a move that has since been extended through August 1. Despite lingering uncertainties, investors have largely shrugged off near-term risks, and optimism is evident: CNN’s Fear & Greed Index recently reached its highest level in over a year. That sentiment raises a classic question—should investors grow cautious w...
July 23, 2025
Policy Clarity and Market Resilience
President Trump’s “one big, beautiful bill” was signed into law on July 4th, beating expectations and easing a major source of market uncertainty. Among its provisions, the bill extends and makes permanent the individual tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—avoiding what would have been a $400 billion tax hike if they had expired. While not a new economic boost, this move removes a potential headwind. Additional provisions like eliminating taxes on tips and overtime could support lower-i...
July 23, 2025
Market Hits New High as First Half Closes—But Uncertainty Remains
As the first half of 2025 wraps up, the S&P 500 has reached a new all-time high—rebounding over 25% since April. But elevated valuations, looming tariff deadlines, and unresolved fiscal policy keep investors on edge.In this update:What drove the market’s sharp reboundWhy caution is still warranted heading into Q3Key areas to watch: trade policy, fiscal negotiations, and corporate earningsTranscription Available Here: https://www.epwealth.com/transcript-t...EP Wealth Advisors, LLC (“EP Wealth”) i...
June 16, 2025
Jobs Report Eases Fears—Though Cracks Are Beginning to Show
Markets responded positively to May’s jobs report, which showed 140,000 new jobs and a steady 4.2% unemployment rate. But beneath the headline numbers, warning signs are starting to emerge.In this week’s Market Update:The labor force shrank by 625,000—raising concerns about discouraged workersJob gains were heavily concentrated in education and healthcareRetail and manufacturing sectors shed jobsPrior months were revised down by 95,000 jobs, hinting at a weaker trendWhile job creation remains ab...